Your London Wedding - September/October 2023 (Issue 91)

Catering teams to wow guests

FINDING THE ONE

Local boutiques share showstopping gowns

Dream London wedding venues I do, I do, I do

Diamonds

Costco Wholesale is a membership warehouse club, dedicated to bringing our members quality goods and services at the lowest possible prices.

Diamonds, pearls and gemstones are stocked in all of our warehouses and online. Choose from earrings, rings, bracelets and necklaces with the confidence that the quality and value of Costco jewellery is unsurpassed. All diamond jewellery is set in 14ct or 18ct gold or platinum with a minimum clarity of VS2 and minimum colour I.

Your membership is valid in all 29 UK warehouses and 810 worldwide. For more information about joining please visit www.costco.co.uk/join. To browse our jewellery online please visit www.costco.co.uk.

All items are subject to availability in the warehouse or online

1.60ctw Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Pendant, 14ct White Gold

3.12ct Pear Cut Diamond Solitaire Ring, Platinum

1.50ctw Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Ring, 18ct White Gold

1.40ctw Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Wedding Ring Set, Platinum

2.00ctw Princess Cut Channel Set Diamond Eternity Ring, Platinum

2.00ctw Round Brilliant Cut Claw Set Eternity Ring

REGULARS

On the cover

This issue’s stunning cover has been sponsored by London-based Mia La Vida Bridal (https://mialavida.com). Founded by bespoke dress and bridalwear designer, Tanya Dimitrova, the model is wearing a gorgeous gown called Storm The image was captured by John Lekan, of London-based Camera Boss (www.cameraboss.co.uk).

FEATURES

48 WISHING HUE A WONDERFUL WEDDING DAY

Check out our wedspirational guide to palette perfection whatever the season

51 BON APPÉTITE

VENUES

Keeping your guests from going hungry with these local catering companies

75 FINDING THE ONE

Local bridal boutiques share trending gowns for all types of wedding themes

FASHION & BEAUTY

54 FASHION FOCUS

The latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches

55 STYLE ALERT

Burnt orange, green, and champagne colours are trending for bridesmaids this season

56 ALL DRESSED UP

The new season bridal edit of dreamy dresses features delicate details, fairytale-inspired florals and flowing fabrics

61 STANDOUT SLEEVES

Make your entrance in style wearing statement sleeves to take you from day to dancefloor

64 BEAUTY BUZZ

Get the look with the latest must-haves

66 LADY OF THE DANCE

Strictly’s Luba Mushtuk talks health, wellbeing and the all-important first dance

69 BEAUTY Q&A

Our local professionals solve your problems

REAL WEDDINGS

32 THEY LIVED HAPPILY EVER AFTER Kate and Justin’s wedding day saw their dreams come true

39 SUNSET VIBES AND HAPPY TIMES

Surrounded by loved ones, Emma and Seb’s day was perfect

44 LIVE, LOVE, LAUGH

Lex and Andy’s wedding was injected with plent of fun at Myatts Field Park

GROOMS

78 SOMETHING BLUE

Be inspired by this on-trend hue

80 GROOMS’ NEWS

The latest best buys and product launches

81 SKIN DEEP

WarPaint For Men shares its make-up and skincare tips for grooms-to-be

HONEYMOONS

82 HONEYMOON NEWS

Our travel editor reveals the newest openings and honeymoon essentials

84 MAGICAL MAURITIUS

Explore this year-round honeymoon hotspot for a taste of the local cuisine, lush scenery and sustainable hotel choices

86 RURAL ROMANCE

Discover the delights of Provence at Hôtel Crillon le Brave

88 TOTAL BODY BLISS

Experience a weekend of wellness and total body bliss at Warwickshire’s Ardencote Spa

FASHION & BEAUTY

54 FASHION FOCUS

The latest bridal fashion news, buys and launches

55 STYLE ALERT

Burnt orange, green, and champagne colours are trending for bridesmaids this season

56 ALL DRESSED UP

The new season bridal edit of dreamy dresses features delicate details, fairytale-inspired florals and flowing fabrics

61 STANDOUT SLEEVES

Make your entrance in style wearing statement sleeves to take you from day to dancefloor

64 BEAUTY BUZZ

Get the look with the latest must-haves

66 LADY OF THE DANCE

Strictly’s Luba Mushtuk talks health, wellbeing and the all-important first dance

69 BEAUTY Q&A

Our local professionals solve your problems

REAL WEDDINGS

32 THEY LIVED HAPPILY EVER AFTER Kate and Justin’s wedding day saw their dreams come true

39 SUNSET VIBES AND HAPPY TIMES

Surrounded by loved ones, Emma and Seb’s day was perfect

44 LIVE, LOVE, LAUGH

Lex and Andy’s wedding was injected with plent of fun at Myatts Field Park

GROOMS

78 SOMETHING BLUE

Be inspired by this on-trend hue

80 GROOMS’ NEWS

The latest best buys and product launches

81 SKIN DEEP

WarPaint For Men shares its make-up and skincare tips for grooms-to-be

HONEYMOONS

82 HONEYMOON NEWS

Our travel editor reveals the newest openings and honeymoon essentials

84 MAGICAL MAURITIUS

Explore this year-round honeymoon hotspot for a taste of the local cuisine, lush scenery and sustainable hotel choices

86 RURAL ROMANCE

Discover the delights of Provence at Hôtel Crillon le Brave

88 TOTAL BODY BLISS

Experience a weekend of wellness and total body bliss at Warwickshire’s Ardencote Spa

Images courtesy of Lloyd Dobbie Photography, Lara Arnott Photography, Nigel John and Nicole Demetriou John

ADVERTISING

Account Manager

Julia Owen | 01376 538 495 julia.owen@county.wedding

Autumnal vibes

Hello lovely readers, and welcome to another issue of Your London Wedding!

EDITORIAL

Editor Olivia Gibson | 01376 535 611 olivia.gibson@county.wedding

As the warmer weather starts to fade and the darker evenings creep in, it’s time to welcome autumn with open arms. There’s nothing better than an autumnal stroll hand-in-hand; plus, I’m a jumper girl at heart and love wrapping up warm. I’m in heaven when getting cosy on the sofa with a blanket and hot chocolate while watching my favourite Halloween film. I’m a big kid, so I couldn’t be more excited to go pumpkin picking and bringing out my cottage-core decorations around my home. I’ve also challenged myself to do homemade baking – I’ve made butter, jam and chutneys. My next goal is to create the perfect homemade bread and rolls!

The scenery has embraced shares of orange, red and yellow this time of year, which creates the ultimate backdrop for weddings. Embrace the rich tones and seasonal foliage in your venue styling for autumnal nuptials – I’m talking berries, acorns, dahlias and hydrangeas. This can also be transpired throughout your stationery, florals and cake. Add incense around your venue with scents like pumpkin spice or cinnamon for that extra wow factor. Fill your venue with candles to enhance the romantic atmosphere; we suggest LED candles as a safe, child-friendly alternative.

Kate and Justin’s four-legged friends made an appearance on their special day! Yorkies Tybalt and Rupert are the first dogs to be approved inside St. Paul’s Cathedral for a wedding and wore cute monogram tuxedos with matching bespoke top hats.

DESIGN 01376 535 616 artwork@county.wedding

ACCOUNTS 01376 535 616 accounts@county.wedding

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Sarah Ellis | 01376 535 602 sarah.ellis@county.wedding

There are many ways to add special seasonal touches to your day. Have you considered a hot chocolate station with marshmallows, syrups and chocolate flakes? Add a box of blankets to keep loved ones from getting chilly when the temperature drops in the evening, and why not offer spice-scented candles for wedding favours? We love seeing couples take guests outside to enjoy sparklers and fireworks to light up the dark sky while ending the night with a bang.

@CountyWeddingMagazines

@CountyWeddings

@countyweddingmagazines

Visit us online at www.county.wedding and www.countyweddingevents.com

For those just starting their wedding journey, autumn is the perfect time to visit a few wedding shows to discover plenty of companies and look around venues. Meeting suppliers in person will allow you to gauge what the team are like and if they’re a good fit for your day. You can view their work, keep up-to-date with the latest trends, find inspiration and ask plenty of questions. Some suppliers even offer special discounts or offers at events, so grab your loved ones for a fun day of wedding planning.

This issue is bursting full of inspiration thanks to the wonderful suppliers around London! We have autumnal must-haves, drawdropping weddings, showstopping venues, expert advice, gowns galore and top honeymoon destinations. Flick to our beauty pages to discover the latest product launches and wellness advice, or discover all the latest happenings from around the city across our news pages. We also have whole features dedicated to wedding catering and boutiques to help the planning process.

That’s all from me; happy planning!

We cannot get enough of this striking gown from Angelica Bridal with a V-neckline, chiffon material, skirt split and embroidered tulle.

Your London Wedding is solely owned, published and designed by KD Events & Publishing Ltd. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for advert content, or of the standing of advertisers or by the editorial contributions. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Your London Wedding is published six times a year.

ISSN 1757-7810

Olivia

Olivia Gibson, Editor

How delicious do these pizzas look from wedding caters Born & Raised ‒ yum!

Emma and Seb both looked incredible on their special day! The pair tied the knot at Islington Town Hall before celebrating with loved ones at Shoreditch Studios.

For those searching for a dreamworthy venue, look no further than Dartmouth House in Mayfair.

Burnt orange, green, and champagne colours are trending for bridesmaids this season – it’s not hard to see why!

Find the perfect bridal jewellery with help from expert Katy Ostro at Something Blue by Ostro.

Psst, one lucky couple will win a romantic break in Yorkshire!

Groom Andy looked dapper in a laid-back yet stylish linen suit and his pièce de résistance was his signature shoe ‒ the Boston Birkenstock.

Maria trained as a professional makeup artist in 2011. Her love for clean classic beauty has lead her to specialise in Celebrity and High fashion, her work has been published in many magazines including Vogue. Her makeup kit includes brands such as Charlotte Tilbury, Nars, Mac, & Dior.

Based in London but available to travel. Prices on request.

www.mariamckennamua.co.uk

mariamckennamakeupartist@gmail.com

Mariamakeupartist

Specialising in bespoke handcrafted jewellery made in the heart of Hatton Garden. We realise your exact vision for you to cherish forever.

LET THE PLANNING COMMENCE!

Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting times of your life and what bet ter way to celebrate than a day out with your partner or wedding party. County Wedding Magazines have teamed up with The National Wedding Show as media partners, the show returns to London (ExCeL) 14th and 15th October for a full weekend of

unbridled wedding inspiration.

Chat to hundreds of local and national suppliers, try on dreamy dresses, get the scoop at insider talks and make the most of some unique discounts too. After all, when it comes to planning the biggest day of your lives, every little helps.

Treat yourself to VIP tickets and receive special benefits on the day including access to the relaxing VIP lounge, a complimentary drink and a goody bag filled with beauty treats. Plus, reserved seating at the catwalk, because who doesn’t want the be on the FROW for once?

What’s more, you can enjoy 10% off website prices (and up to 35% off door prices) on both VIP and standard tickets. Simply use the ticket code ‘CountyWedding10’ at checkout and you’ll get standard tickets for £16.50 or VIP tickets for just £32.

Check out https://nationalweddingshow.co.uk

Buy tickets here: https://weddingshow.seetickets.com/event/thenational-wedding-show-london/excel/2628745

Nearlywed

NEWS

Catch up on news from around the region

EDITOR, OLIVIA GIBSON, REVIEWS A LONDON ICON!

After a few months, with life generally getting in the way, I needed a relaxing trip away to spend quality time with my partner – what better location than the iconic Town Hall Hotel?

Located in the vibrant East End of London, just a leisurely five-minute walk to Bethnal Green Station, the imposing building makes a lasting impression and was previously the old Bethnal Green Town Hall. The Grade-II listed site has been lovingly transformed into the luxurious Hotel today, boasting 97 bedrooms and intact Edwardian features. From the moment we walked through the door, we were captivated by the grand marble entranceway, striking focal staircase and Art Deco interior that surrounded us.

After being welcomed by the friendly staff, we headed to our suite; immaculately clean, spacious and with all the amenities needed for a memorable stay. I loved the style: modern furniture, light hardwood floors, neutral walls, pops of colour with the plush sofa, armchair, artwork and light fixtures ‒ I was in décor heaven! The contemporary bathroom featured a large bath, Holm toiletries, robes and slippers, perfect for a relaxing soak. I love that guests can enjoy beauty and spa treatments from the comfort of their own room with a range of massages, facials and hair and make-up services, making it ideal for a spot of pre- or post-wedding pampering!

The kitchen area provided all the equipment needed for a cosy night in with a microwave, oven, hob, washing facilities, fridge freezer and

stone-top work surface. We whisked up delicious brownies before relaxing in the living room in front of the flat-screen TV for a movie night.

Our room provided an escape from the outside world, and when our night drew to a close, the comfortable bed was the perfect spot to rest our aching bodies from exploring London earlier that day. I was out like a light from the moment my head hit the pillow! The floor-to-ceiling windows provided the perfect wake-up call, with natural light flooding in as the sun rose over the iconic city. We enjoyed a delicious breakfast, the fluffy pancakes were a must-have dish!

The Hotel is home to a two-Michelin star restaurant, which provides flavourful dishes thanks to chef Rafael Cagali, who serves up South American-inspired dishes with an Italian heart. Enjoy pre-dinner drinks with tasty cocktails in the Silk Weaver, the Hotel’s main bar area.

For the perfect start to the morning, take a dip in the 14-metre pool with loungers and plenty of natural lighting thanks to the skylights.

The property provides the perfect wedding backdrop for those looking to tie the knot. The Bethnal Hall, Council Chamber and The De Montfort Suite can all be hired for private events.

We had a wonderful stay at Town Hall Hotel from start to finish! A special thank you to the fantastic team who ensured we had a lovely experience from the moment we arrived. The Hotel offers the ultimate setting for pre-wedding date nights and is the perfect hub to explore London – we will definitely be coming back!

Book now: www.townhallhotel.com

GRAB YOUR GIRL SQUAD

Looking for a unique hen do experience? Offering a series of floralinspired activities that give a nod to Strand Palace’s Covent Garden location – an iconic destination formerly home to the capital’s first flower market – the hotel’s new package allows guests to enjoy the very best of the British summertime whilst staying in the heart of the city.

As part of the ‘Summer in Bloom’ package, guests can enjoy a vibrant floral-themed city walking tour expertly curated with renowned Blue Badge Tour Guide Mark Conroy. This bespoke tour will take guests through Central London’s beautiful green spaces.

Additionally, hen parties can also partake in an interactive floristry workshop with local Covent Garden florists, Bloomsbury Flowers, as an optional exclusive experience held in Strand Palace’s refined Private Dining Room. Indulge in an exquisite afternoon tea in collaboration with premium British chocolate brand Love Cocoa with a glass of bubbles each and a complimentary floral craft cocktail , Strand Palace Bouquet. What’s more, you’ll be treated to an in-room gift (per room) of British fragrance brand Floral Street’s London Poppy perfume worth £68!

The package is priced at £599 for a two-night stay for two guests and includes a buffet breakfast. There are also optional extras such as the two-hour floral-inspired walking tour (£62.50pp, based on a group of four) and one-hour floral workshop led by Bloomsbury Flowers (£125pp, based on a group of four).

Book here www.strandpalacehotel.co.uk

MORE CAKE PLEASE!

The team at Birley Bakery is proud to present the first in its line of celebration cakes, which will be available from the bakery cafe in the heart of Chelsea Green.

Also known as ‘La Tarte de Saint-Tropez’, the recipe developed by Birley Bakery’s executive head chef Vincent Zanardi remains faithful to the original conceived by the Polish confectioner and patisserie-owner Alexandre Micka in the mid-1950s.

Reminiscent of the idyllic coastal town on the Côte d’Azur, the Tarte Tropézienne uses light brioche soaked with orange blossom and filled with elegant crème madame –a base of vanilla pastry cream (crème patissière) mixed with light whipped cream (Chantilly) and topped with pearled sugar.

Staying true to the ethos of the bakery, the offering echoes that of the classic boulangerie-pâtisseries Vincent used to visit with his mother growing up in France.

This new five-tier creation marks the start of Birley Bakery’s celebration cake offering, available to order for events of all kinds.

Visit https://birleybakery.com

BOTTOM’S UP!

British restaurateur and event caterer Searcys unveils its second Champagne Coupé, a fully working mobile champagne bar in a 1930s vintage car available for private hire for events.

An exceptional car by perfectionist Henry Royce, Searcys has intricately converted this British classic into a drivable champagne bar. Complete with a built-in fridge, able to hold up to 60 bottles, and beautifully finished in the striking Searcys blue with mirror-sharp chrome finishes; it’s the perfect touch to mark any event.

Available to hire for weddings, start events with the Searcys Champagne Coupé package that includes a fully serviced drinks reception, with options to tailor the drink and nibble selection to meet any requirements. The drinks menu consists of the full range of Searcys own Champagnes and its award-winning English sparkling wine, alongside a rotating selection of specials spotlighting partner Champagne houses, accompanied by a concise selection of nibbles.

The ideal addition to celebrations in London and beyond, the Searcys Champagne Coupé is on offer to hire as an add-on for events across Searcys venues, including 116 Pall Mall, 10-11 Carlton House Terrace, The HAC, The Inner Temple and Searcys at the Gherkin. Packages start from £50 per person.

For details on packages and how to book, drop the team an email at searcys@thecollectionevents.com.

Check out: https://searcys.co.uk

BRIDAL HAIR PREP SORTED

The new Metal Detox treatment by Limoz Logli, available at his exclusive salon in South Kensington, was introduced after receiving feedback from several clients who experienced dry, dull and brassy toned hair due to the effects of the hard water in London! The quality of water in London has the highest levels of magnesium and copper in the UK. Constant exposure to this water leaves hair dry, dull and prone to breakage. If your hair is coloured or lightened, it becomes porous and attracts the chemicals in the water even more than normal hair. The copper builds up and creates brassy tones.

Metal Detox is a three-step 90-minute programme that protects, detoxifies and prevents metal build-up on your hair. The treatments include a cleanse with Limoz’s detoxifying and purifying shampoo, followed by a pressure point scalp massage to help the product penetrate and stimulate hair follicles to encourage hair growth. Gentle heat is then applied to the hair to activate the treatment. Next is a nourishing treatment with steam. It is finalising the experience with a delicious coffee with added JSHealth Pure Marine Collagen to support beauty from within and Limoz’s signature blow dry for the ultimate revitalised look!

Priced £200, visit https://limozlogli.com to book.

Sunday 8 th October 2023 11am to 4pm

One of the largest wedding shows to be held in the South of England. A huge number of wedding specialists on hand to inspire and advise on how to bring your wedding dreams to life.

PLUS! Special offers on the day • The chance to win a luxury honeymoon

• Bridal fashion shows

• Entertainment • Refreshments • and more...

For your FREE tickets and the chance to win a £250 voucher courtesy of SpaBreaks.com pre-register at:

www.countyweddingevents.com/registration

Freebies & OFFERS

Great giveaways and discounts up for grabs

WIN TICKETS TO THE NATIONAL WEDDING SHOW

Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting times of your life and what better way to celebrate than a day out with your partner or wedding party. The National Wedding Show returns to Birmingham (NEC) between 22nd and 24th September, and to London (ExCeL) 14th and 15th October, for two full weekends of unbridled wedding inspiration.

Chat to hundreds of local and national suppliers, try on dreamy dresses, get the scoop at insider talks and make the most of some unique discounts too. After all, when it comes to planning the biggest day of your lives, every little helps.

FIT FOR A QUEEN

Inspired by organic shapes and capturing fluid elements in motion, Lucy Quartermaine creates stunning jewellery from remarkable designs that will transform your bridal style.

Originally produced to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, the Royal Pearl collection complements 925 silver with freshwater pearls for a timeless design perfect for a wedding day.

Visit https://lucyqdesigns.co.uk County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with Lucy Quartermaine to give readers the chance to win a threepiece set of Royal Pearl pieces worth £237. For your chance to win enter via our website, www.yourlondon.wedding

WIN PERSONALISED BRACELETS

Are you dreaming of making your special day even more memorable for your beloved bridesmaids? Look no further! We have an exciting opportunity for you to win personalised bracelets for each of your bridesmaids, courtesy of Merci Maman.

Merci Maman understand the importance of thoughtful and meaningful gifts, especially when it comes to your bridesmaids. Its handcrafted Personalised Pastille Chain Bracelet is a bestseller, a timeless and beloved piece testament to the elegance and charm that the brand’s jewellery carries. Crafted with love and attention to detail, these bracelets will serve as treasured keepsakes for your bridesmaids, a symbol of your lasting friendship and gratitude.

Visit www.mercimamanboutique.com/en County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with Merci Maman to give readers the chance to win two personalised pastille chain bracelets worth £237.

For your chance to win enter via our website, www.yourlondon.wedding

Treat yourself to VIP tickets (£45) and receive special benefits on the day including access to the relaxing VIP lounge, a complimentary drink and a goody bag filled with beauty treats. Plus, reserved seating at the catwalk, because who doesn’t want the be on the FROW for once?

Check out https://nationalweddingshow.co.uk

County Wedding Magazines has teamed up with The National Wedding Show to give away 10 pairs of VIP tickets to our readers. For your chance to win enter via our website: www.yourlondon.wedding/giveaways

WEDDING SHOWS AUTUMN 2023

ALL EVENTS 11AM - 3PM

unless otherwise stated

At County Wedding Events each show is professionally and meticulously run to ensure a variety of suppliers are on hand to help you plan your big day and are hosted by some of the loveliest premier venues in your area.

All our shows offer you free entry and parking, a goody bag each containing gifts, and useful local information to plan your wedding. You will also have the opportunity to enter prize draw competitions and take advantage of exclusive offers and discounts on the day.

EAST MIDLANDS

SURREY

SUSSEX

SUN 8 OCT | LAYER MARNEY TOWER Layer Marney, Colchester, CO5 9US

SUN 29 OCT | HOUCHINS WEDDING VENUE Houchin’s Lane, Coggeshall, Colchester, CO6 1RT

SUN 1 OCT | MULBERRY HOUSE Chelmsford Road, High Ongar, CM5 9NL

SUN 15 OCT | BRAXTED PARK Great Braxted, Witham, CM8 3EN

SUN 15 OCT | THAT AMAZING PLACE Hubbards Hall Farm, Harlow, CM17 0NH

SUN 22 OCT | SELDEN BARNS Selden Lane, Patching, Worthing, BN13 3UL

SUN 15 OCT | RUSHTON HALL Desborough Road, Rushton, Kettering, NN14 1RR

SUN 1 OCT | NUTFIELD PRIORY Nutfield Road, Nutfield, Redbridge, RH1 4EL

Signature

WEDDING SHOWS

• Free entry • First 100 couples receive a free wedding journal keepsake

• Goody bag for each couple • Up to 200 stands • Bridal fashion shows

• Huge number of wedding specialists including venues

• Competitions

• Entertainment

ASCOT RACECOURSE

High Street, Berkshire, SL5 7JX

SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER 2023 | 11AM - 3.30PM

WEMBLEY STADIUM

London, HA9 0WS

SUNDAY 8 OCTOBER 2023 | 11AM - 4PM

MERCEDES-BENZ WORLD

Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, KT13 0SL

SUNDAY 29 OCTOBER 2023 | 11AM - 3:30PM

Pre-register and attend the show to have a chance to win a fabulous spa break worth £250 courtesy of

• Demonstration areas

• Refreshments

• And more...

Pre-register at www.countyweddingevents.com/registration

GREAT EXPECTATIONS

Here at County Wedding Magazines and Events HQ we’re looking forward to kickstarting our Autumn 2023 wedding show season – perfect for all those couples that got engaged over the Summer period.

From must-visit local fairs in some of the region’s best wedding venues to our larger Signature Wedding Shows, we can’t wait to welcome nearlyweds to our events and help plan their wedding day.

Each event will boast a huge range of specialists who will be on hand to talk through your planning ideas and requirements; venues, bridal boutiques, photographers, florists, cake makers and more, there’s everything you could need to plan your wedding under one roof.

On the day refreshments will be available to purchase from each of the venue’s on-site restaurants, bars and cafés.

Couples will need to pre-register in advance for an allocated arrival time, although on the day visitors are always welcome, and attending our shows are free!

For more information, visit County Wedding Events’ website.

We look forward to seeing you at one of our events.

X Sarah

A date for your diary...

Sarah Ellis, Sales and Events Director County Wedding Events.

Psst! Our pre-registered Signature Wedding Show visitors will have the chance to win a £250 gift voucher courtesy of Spabreaks.com

Grand Wedding

Celebrate your special day at the epitome of North London's luxury, West Lodge Park Hotel. With exquisite interiors, towering windows, a majestic staircase, and 35 acres of scenic grounds, it's an unrivalled venue for your celebration.

We are committed to meeting your every need and supporting you throughout your wedding journey. Host ing only one wedding per day ensures meticulous attention to detail, making your day uniquely yours. Let your forever start today here at West Lodge Park Hotel

020 8216 3943

wlpweddings@bealeshotels.co.uk

www.westlodgepark.co.uk

Cornwall, a county of beauty and magic; a place of wedding dreams.

My Cornwall Wedding: O cially Yours - the only source of bespoke, legal, celebrant-led civil weddings in Cornwall.

Experience Luxury at Our Venue Near London

Lost in a

DREAM

These showstopping venues leave a lasting impression

FOUNDLING MUSEUM

02078 413 616 | https://foundlingmuseum.org.uk/venue-hire

The Foundling Museum is a Grade II-listed, Georgian-style building in the heart of leafy Bloomsbury overlooking Brunswick Square; it can be hired exclusively for memorable events.

With beautiful interiors, the museum houses a wealth of treasures including Handel’s will and part of his famous oratorio Messiah. It also boasts magnificent paintings from some of the most celebrated 18thcentury artists, sculptures, ceramics, furniture and decorative art.

Exchange vows in the enchanting Court Room with 50 guests, the ideal space for intimate ceremonies or wedding breakfasts (40), with sumptuous olive-green walls, Persian carpet and a striking hand-moulded ceiling. Couples will find an array of notable pieces within this room, including a magnificent large-scale painting by William Hogarth and a small roundel of the Charterhouse by Thomas Gainsborough.

For grand celebrations of up to 100 guests, the Georgian-style Picture Gallery awaits. Nestled under masterpieces, it’s adorned with antique furnishings, a marble fireplace and large-scale portraits.

DARTMOUTH HOUSE, MAYFAIR

02075 291 554 | www.dartmouth-house.com

Mayfair is one of London’s most luxurious neighbourhoods, making it a desirable wedding location. Dartmouth House is tucked away on a tranquil street just a stone’s throw from Berkeley Square. Standing proud with its traditional London townhouse façade, the grand entrance sets the scene for its variety of magnificent indoor event spaces and quaint courtyard with an atmosphere of a château terrace. Private and secluded, it’s perfect for al fresco canapés and drinks receptions after wedding ceremonies for 120 guests.

Inside, step into a world of timeless elegance and grandeur as guests embrace the allure of the Grade II listed mansion, thoughtfully infused with modern touches.

Available for exclusive use, Dartmouth House holds a licence for ceremonies and offers a variety of rooms, catering to every style and

size of gathering; from intimate affairs to grand ceremonies for up to 100 guests, seated receptions for 150 or standing parties for up to 350.

Ceremonies take place in The Churchill Room with up to 100 loved ones; it takes its name from the long-standing connection to Churchill College Cambridge and Winston Churchill. Once the ballroom of the house, the room features floor-to-ceiling antique Louis XIV walnut panelling and a beautifully ornate fire place that enhances the intimate feel of this space.

Post-vows, receptions take place in the Long Drawing Room with up to 100 loved ones. Overlooking Charles Street and decorated in the late 18th-century style, it features a Robert Adam’s fire place, beautifully draped full-length sash windows, French-style rococo ornate coving and tall ceilings ‒ a truly atmospheric space for wedding meals.

The Small Drawing Room is the perfect space if numbers are slightly over 100, as an additional 50 guests can be accommodated in this space, increasing the overall capacity to 150 for dinners.

DRAPERS’ HALL

02074 481 324 | www.thedrapers.co.uk

Drapers’ Hall is a hidden oasis in the city of London that offers an idyllic and picturesque setting.

Whether the venue is chosen to host intimate wedding breakfasts or the grandest of celebrations, the venue’s available for exclusive use including its two outdoor spaces. The venue’s garden is perfect for entertaining up to 180 guests on warm evenings, and the courtyard provides another space for evening receptions.

Although this venue’s not licensed for ceremonies, pairs can host a blessing before enjoying the exquisite setting for receptions, which take place in the Drawing Room. Peaceful and elegant, this space can host a champagne drinks receptions followed by wedding breakfasts with up to 276 loved ones

When tying the knot here, couples are offered a complimentary menu tasting. They will also benefit from a straightforward planning process with all the essentials: elegant candelabra centrepieces, a dancefloor, and a Steinway classic grand piano.

WEDDINGS AT

SAY ‘I DO’ IN STYLE AT SOUTH LONDON’S ICONIC VENUE

Fall in love with four stylish event spaces plus 15 luxury bedrooms to host a wedding with serious wow factor. Available for wedding ceremonies, breakfasts, receptions and your first night as a married couple. Suitable for parties from 40–200 people. Late licence until 2am.

The Bedford, 77 Bedford Hill, Balham, London SW12 9HD thebedford.com | info@thebedford.com | @thebedfordpub

Capture the essence of your special day with The Kensington Photographer’s candid style wedding photography and videography services. Trust our keen attention to detail and commitment to clear communication, ensuring that your wedding memories reflect your unique love story.

From iconic venues in London to captivating locations beyond, we are here to preserve your cherished moments in the most exquisite and authentic way. As seen in Your London Wedding Magazine Real Weddings feature.

YOUR DREAM WEDDING AWAITS

at Hyatt Regency London – �e Churchill

Elevate your love story amidst the timeless charm of Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill. Nestled in central London’s upmarket neighbourhood of Marylebone, our iconic hotel invites you to create cherished memories in an idyllic city setting.

With our license for civil marriages, you can exchange vows in the presence of up to 160 guests, followed by a grand celebration or an intimate reception in our elegant ballroom or one of our charming smaller venues. Our dedicated wedding specialist will ensure every detail is tailored to your vision, from exquisite floral arrangements to gourmet dining experiences.

A complimentary wedding night stay in one of our guestrooms ensures your special day begins and ends in style. Your love story deserves the utmost attention and care; contact us today to weave your dreams into reality.

30 Portman Square, Marylebone, London.

Tel: +44 (0) 20 7486 5800

Email: lonch-rfp@hyatt.com

www.hyattregencylondonthechurchill.com

THE LANSDOWNE CLUB 02076 297 200 | www.lansdowneclub.com

The Lansdowne Club is ideally located in the heart of Mayfair. Built-in 1763, Lansdowne House has hosted many key historical moments over the centuries. This exclusive private member’s club is an enchanting wedding backdrop with its impressive neo-classical architecture and elegant interiors. The Winter Garden and courtyard provide picturesque surroundings for champagne receptions and photographs. With its retractable roof, this beautifully landscaped outdoor space can be enjoyed by guests all year round.

Couples can host their nuptials and receptions in the club’s Grade II listed Ballroom with up to 150 guests. The epitome of grandeur, its 18th-

century gilded, vaulted ceilings and minstrel galleries are magnificent. The Adam Room accommodates 80 guests for smaller occasions and boasts stunning décor with soft colours, fine details and a beautiful ornate ceiling adorned with a shimmering chandelier. Couples also have the option to wed al fresco in the courtyard.

The Crush Hall is the perfect space for cake-cutting ceremonies with its luxurious wall coverings, original antique furniture and ornate gallery.

Lovebirds getting married here can enjoy the club’s exclusive facilities, including the magnificent indoor 25-yard, Art Deco swimming pool, relaxing steam room, and state-of-the-art gym. What’s more, the Bridal Suite and 20 perfectly appointed guest rooms and suites are available for exclusive use.

30 EUSTON SQUARE 02084 534 600 | www.30eustonsquare.co.uk

Located in the heart of London, the Grade II listed 30 Euston Square boasts stunning Edwardian features, Greek Revival architecture and is an award-winning event venue with a range of flexible spaces. Couples can capture forever photos on the adjoining Rooftop Terrace with beautifuk views over London!

Dating back to 1906, 30 Euston Square blends the old with the new through its historic architecture and state-of-the-art facilities. With a licence for ceremonies for up to 230 guests for grand affairs, wow guests

in the penthouse State Rooms and a rooftop terrace with the Fairytale Wedding Package. Available for ceremonies, receptions and afterparties, the flexible space also transforms into a dancefloor.

Those keeping things intimate can exchange vows in the Princes Gate Room, with oak-panelled walls, floor-to-ceiling windows and a statement fire place. Offering its own Legacy wedding package, couples can choose canapé receptions or three-course wedding breakfasts.

Plus, 30 Euston Square is home to 41 boutique bedrooms, furnished to the highest standard with every package including an overnight stay and a bottle of English sparkling wine for the newlyweds.

As the most followed Saxophonist & DJ in the UK and the USA, Dan Goode combines masterful Saxophone performance with stunning live DJing to create truly unique and unforgettable moments for you and your guests.

With over 20 years of experience playing Saxophone and over a decade performing at private events full time, Dan is regularly hired by celebrities, fortune 50 CEOs and prominent political figures. He has amassed an astounding online following, and over 5 million streams on his original music on Spotify alone. Dan has also been awarded Top 10 UK DJ multiple times by the UK’s largest entertainment agency.

As an international artist, Dan is frequently seen performing in Spain, Italy, France, Greece and further abroad in exotic destinations, such as Dubai, Sri Lanka, Mexico, and the Maldives.

Contact

+44

(0)7495 499368

Dan@DanGoodeOfficial.com

GLAZIERS HALL

ROMANTIC

reflections

Tie the knot in one of these London venues with a waterside setting

020 7403 3300 | www.glaziershall.co.uk

Glaziers Hall is situated on the Southbank, less than a minute walk from London Bridge station. The building can be seen in all its glory from London Bridge. Set against a London skyline, with the Shard in the background, the historic architecture and history makes this unique building so captivating. With access from the ‘Nancy steps’, made famous by featuring in the film Oliver, Glaziers Hall has large glass doors that lead to a modern entrance with a large open-plan foyer. Couples are spoilt for choice with seven exquisite spaces, all steeped in history and unique charm. Whether planning intimate gatherings or large celebrations to include loved ones – there’s something for everyone. Ceremonies take place with up to 70 loved ones in River View. Boasting floor-to-ceiling glazed arches, it’s a light and bright space with panoramic views of the River Thames and the city. For larger nuptials of up to 300, the Banqueting Hall is full of splendour

and charm, with floor-to-ceiling drapes. The team can open the walls to showcase the workmanship of the Glaziers or close to creating a blank canvas space. While chandeliers adorn the ceilings, the Banqueting Hall also benefits from the latest technology and equipment to help support increasingly complex events. Alternatively, couples can opt for the Court Room (180), a historic space set out in a theatre-style, or London Bridge Arches is perfect for up to 100 guests. The latter, opened in 2018 following a major multi-million-pound refurbishment framed by the most incredible stonework. The collective of interconnecting stone vaults creates a single wonderous space, often favoured by those who want to make a showstopping impact. Post-vows, receptions occur in London Bridge Arches for 110 guests, Banqueting Hall (300) and River View (70).

When tying the knot here, preferred catering partner Life’s Kitchen will meet any expectations. From the delicious food, complimentary drinks and superb waiting staff, they’ll ensure everything runs smoothly. Once a date has been agreed upon, couples benefit from a menu tasting with up to four guests to discuss menu choices and try the wines for the day.

GOLDEN HINDE SHIP

020 7403 0123 | www.goldenhinde.co.uk

Located on Borough Market near London Bridge and the surrounding Bankside, the Golden Hinde Ship is a full-sized wooden reconstruction of the first ship to circumnavigate the globe. Boasting five decks to explore, the venue will create the perfect backdrop to unforgettable weddings.

Couples looking to tie the knot can do so in The Hold with up to 60 loved ones. The wooden belly of the ship below deck traditionally would have held cargo during the period of circumnavigation. Shipwrights recently tailored the area to open the space comfortably and provide

seating as well as a bar hidden at the back. Alternatively, the Great Cabin (30) has wooden beams, leaded windows and bespoke hand-carved oak furnishings in period design. It creates the perfect intimate framing for couples to say their vows and sign the register.

Up to 30 guests standing in the ‘Armoury’ can look upon the ceremony through the open design of the bulkhead. The Armoury hosts the top of the capstan, which was turned to haul the anchor and a collection of Tudor design chests offer seating.

Post-vows, The Hold and The Becks hosts receptions of up to 60; the open-air decks of the ship have a view of the River Thames.

THE ROYAL HORSEGUARDS HOTEL

020

7523 5062 |

www.guoman.com

Victorian grandeur is combined with elegantly British hospitality to set the Grade II-listed Royal Horseguards Hotel apart as one of the finest hotels in the city. With a rich history, the French château-style Hotel’s apartments were used as the home and office of the first MI6 chief, Sir Mansfield Cumming! It’s also a popular filming location for TV and Film, adding a touch of star quality to the occasion and an exciting talking point!

With ornate sculptured ceilings, a grand marble staircase and glittering chandeliers, the venue is ideally located on Victoria Embankment with stunning views over the River Thames and London Eye.

Catering for 72 to 400 guests, the event spaces licensed for couples to choose from comprise of The Meston Suite, The Gladstone Library, Reading & Writing Room, The Whitehall Suite and The River Room.

The Hotel’s highly trained and attentive team of professionals are incredibly passionate about ensuring that couples and their guests enjoy memorable experiences with a real sense of occasion.

Colette has brought her unique offering to corporate functions, private parties, weddings and club nights, and has held residencies with DJs across the UK’s marquee venues, including brunch parties and evening showcases.

Contact Colette on 07917 135546 info@colettehazen.com WWW.COLETTEHAZEN.COM

Colette is a dynamic and versatile violinist and electric violinist, who’s playing has taken her all around the World. From Australia, Hong Kong and Taiwan, to Switzerland and Serbia, Colette has wowed audiences globally. She has performed to crowds of up to 50,000 and played with the cast of Lord of The Dance on the Britain’s Got Talent final to an audience of over 13 million.

Playing on a striking wireless, LED light-up violin, Colette’s electric style spans from Cafe del Mar Ibiza chill out to house and pop club music, solo or improvising alongside a DJ.

Also check out....

THE OYSTER SHED

Located on the banks of the River Thames and in the heart of the City of London, The Oyster Shed is a modern venue with floor-to-ceiling windows that provide mesmerising views. The bright and airy venue is set over two floors, including the mezzanine level and The Rockefeller Lounge, which hosts the main dining area and has its garden, providing the perfect location for arrival drinks and nibbles. Additional seating is available outside to admire the views.

Check out: www.oystershed.co.uk

BATEAUX LONDON

For those looking for intimate ceremonies at the waterfront wedding venue The Pier, or a larger reception venue aboard the River Room or Glass Room boats, weddings will be set against the iconic backdrop of the River Thames. With its beautiful city views, The Pier is licensed for ceremonies with guest lists of up to 50 people. This riverside bar and lounge situated at Embankment Pier boasts a Tom Dixon Studio interior design, delicious food and exceptional service.

Check out: www.bateauxlondon.com

CANARY RIVERSIDE PLAZA HOTEL

Set within the historical wharves and quays of East London, Canary Riverside Plaza boasts incredible views of the river and the city beyond. The stunning two-storey ballroom is bathed in sunlight and offers seating for up to 200 guests for sit-down meals and up to 300 for evening receptions. Complete with a pre-function area with space for 100, this is the perfect option to host weddings.

Check out: www.canaryriversideplaza.com

THE MITRE

This Grade II-listed property dates back to 1665 and is steeped in history, having originally been used as ancillary accommodation for guests of King Charles II at Hampton Court Palace. Set on the banks of the River Thames, The Mitre has its own jetty equipped with a boat available for hire if couples want to arrive in style. The beautiful riverside terrace is decorated with lights and Parisian-style furniture.

Check out: www.mitrehamptoncourt.com

WITCHES AND WIZARDS Calling all

Olivia Gibson experiences the Georgian House Hotel for the ultimate hen do location

I’m always looking for unique experiences and London never disappoints in this quest! As an avid Harry Potter fan ‒ I’m a true Hufflepuff! ‒ so my stay at the family-run property, Georgian House Hotel, was right up my Diagon Alley; its array of wizard experiences are a must for any fan!

SETTING THE SCENE

Located in picturesque Pimlico, the 172-year-old Hotel offers a dreamworthy setting, townhouse-chic combined with Victorian character.

With individually designed bedrooms that transport guests into a world of magic, we reached our Wizard Chamber via a candlelit passageway lined with portraits (sadly not moving) on the walls. Each step left the contemporary décor behind as we welcomed the mysterious and Gothic interior. With a turn of a key, we entered our chambers to find an abundance of delightful artefacts with cauldrons, trunks, a dragon’s egg, tapestries and archways. Our room could sleep up to six guests with two double beds and a single, perfect for families or hen dos. Our chamber was complete with a large shower and White Company toiletries, which was a lovely touch, as were the robes and slippers that provided extra comfort. The room’s cosy atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowed us to disconnect from the outside world and its muggles fully.

For the perfect night in, the complimentary Harry Potter DVDs enlightened the experience; cosy in our four-poster bed, we fully immersed ourselves in the wizarding world with The Goblet of Fire. The provided wizarding currency enables you to spend it on goodies at reception; our chocolate frog, crisps and chocolate went down a treat for movie night!

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

We revelled in the Potion-Making Experience and Enchanted Afternoon Tea the following day! Just writing this review makes me hungry, thinking back to the fluffy chocolate, cherry, lemon and peanut cakes on offer. The lightning bolt scone with cheddar and pesto was divine, as was the

vanilla scone served with strawberry jam and clotted cream. We enjoyed a choux bun filled with sliced smoked salmon with cream cheese and fresh dill, followed by a cucumber and cream cheese sandwich and egg mayonnaise on rye bread with micro herbs. I loved the addition of dry ice for added effect!

After enjoying our afternoon tea, it was time to brew some potions with help from the team. With the choice of cocktails or mocktails, we mixed some delicious beverages with candyfloss, goblin goo, syrups and more. Following instructions, we created Beastly Bubble and Pea Flower potions ‒ both tasted amazing!

After a peaceful night’s sleep later that evening, we headed to breakfast to enjoy a special menu with wizard dishes. I, of course, opted for the curious apple compote and crushed caramel biscuit pancakes, which I highly recommend! Each mouthful was delicious, with the soft and fluffy pancakes paired with the sour apple and crunchy biscuit. We also tucked into the continental buffet with granola pots, overnight oats, cheeses, yoghurts, cereals, bread and pastries. It’s safe to say we were stuffed!

FINAL VERDICT

After such a magical stay (pun-intended), we had created fabulous memories at Georgian House Hotel; thanks to the unique experience and attentive staff, who ensured a memorable stay from start to finish, nothing was too much trouble! Perfect for one-of-a-kind hen dos or pre-wedding date nights, there are packages available for bespoke events – you won’t regret it! We can’t wait to come back and revisit the property soon, especially as the location provides the perfect base for the city.

BOOK IT!

35 - 39 St George’s Dr, Pimlico, London SW1V 4DG https://georgianhousehotel.co.uk 020 7834 1438

reception@georgianhousehotel.co.uk

Happily ever after...

Kate and Justin’s fairytale wedding dreams became a reality Images courtesy

of David Christopher Photography

Itwas genuinely love at first sight for Justin and Kate when they met on Kate’s first day working at Airbnb in 2015. After dating, exciting career progressions, graduations and a child together, Justin proposed on November 15th 2020. “It was sweet that Justin picked the 15th because it’s a special number to us; he asked me to be his girlfriend on that date, and it’s also the date of my birthday (all be it a different month).” Kate shared that Justin had done an excellent job planning a sweet and memorable engagement. “The sunshine was beaming, our dog was in attendance, bright red rose petals covered the ground and even a violinist graced us with the most beautiful background music,” recalls Kate. “Justin took my hand and told me how much he loved me and how special building our life together has been thus far. He then took one knee, opening the little blue box of my dreams, and I was so overcome with emotion that I just burst into tears. His gorgeous green eyes glimmered up at me as he asked me the best question. It was the easiest ‘yes’ of all time! I was shaking with glee and jumped up into his arms for kisses. He then whisked me away to a little engage-moon in Miami Beach, and we were both glowing all week. Justin is such a sweet, sweet soul. He was so proud to tell me how he thought out and planned every moment himself, which made me smile.”

The big date was set, July 23rd 2022, with the ceremony taking place at St. Paul’s Cathedral and Banqueting House of Historic Royal Palaces setting the scene for the reception. Here, we find out more about their big day…

PLANNING THE DAY

“My number one goal whilst wedding planning was to bring all my childhood dreams to centerfold,” shares Kate. “I worked quickly yet tirelessly to create something stunning that left our guests gasping. It was a priority of mine to provide once-in-a-lifetime experiences that still felt ‘authentically us’ as a couple.” Designing their wedding with a few of their favourite values in mind, one being intimacy, they intentionally chose a smaller guest list, “It allowed us to have longer hugs, deeper conversations and unforgettable moments,” adds Kate. “We invited 100 of our closest friends and family and had about 75% fly across the pond to attend. This actually ended up being the perfect number for us because we were able to create significant memories with each and every one of them.”

SETTING THE SCENE

Having dreamed of being wed at St. Paul’s Cathedral, there was no doubt in Kate’s mind when she was actually invited to do so. “We were granted a rare and special licence at Westminster Abbey to be wed in the Chapel of the Order, inside St Paul’s Cathedral, due to a family award called The Order of the British Empire We felt honoured to pay homage to integrating our two families and cultures in such a special place,” shares Kate. The couple’s Yorkies, Tybalt and Rupert, are the first ever dogs to be approved inside the cathedral to be present for a wedding and wore cute monogram tuxedos with matching bespoke top hats.

The wedding day itself had a grand and royal feel to fit the nature of the iconic venues, with an ‘English garden meets edgy American glamour’ theme throughout to match their personalities. “The ceremony styling was timeless and elegant, with a hint of Princess Diana-glam,” adds Kate. “While the cocktail-hour had a gorgeous summertime garden-chic vibe in the Churchyard Gardens. It was completely private for the occasion with performers, musicians, dancers and live

“It was the most magical, and overwhelmingly dreamlike day marrying my dream girl.” ‒ Justin

artists to greet guests as we took our first steps as newlyweds through a large floral arch and celebrated with just under 100 of our family and friends.”

Wedding guests were whisked away on a fun journey aboard classic opentop buses with performers and music, to a lavish surprise reception at Banqueting House in Whitehall. This special venue is part of the Historical Royal Palaces as it’s the last remaining portion of the Palace of Whitehall, and guests had no idea this was coming. “The dizzying high ceilings painted by Rubens and the opulent décor was echoed in the tablescapes with many intricate details splashed in gold and white. The reception was framed by more musicians and performers that continued to surprise and delight with many different displays throughout the night.”

For favours, the couple opted for two offerings, “I had beautiful wooden Welsh Spoons handcrafted in the town of my Taid (grandfather) and dad. These came in sweet little envelopes with the Welsh flag and a small paper booklet inside describing the history and significance. In addition, for a twist on traditional favours, guests were each treated to a custom 8x10 live hand-painted portrait of themselves. These were later framed in white and displayed at the reception for pick up.”

At the reception, Kate wanted the seating plan to be unlike anything she’d seen before so they sat in a large X-shape table in the centre of the room to represent a kiss. “It elegantly criss-crossed the room with raised florals of white roses and clouds of gypsophila to give you a feeling of heavenly skies with the royal Rubens painting above them. A gypsophila tree adorned the centre of the table layout ‒ it was pretty cool! The tables themselves were mirrored just like our dancefloor and they were trailing with gorgeous candles, vases, timeless roses and creamy largeheaded peonies. Justin and I sat across from this, facing all our friends and family, at our own beautiful, mirrored sweetheart table overflowing with white florals,” adds Kate.

Taking styling inspiration from her mother, who had her very own British wedding many moons ago, Kate chose creamy white roses to be wrapped in gypsophila for her big day as a little nod to her. “I integrated her ever-so sleek and simple designs throughout the entire day, and really highlighted it in massive ‘clouds’ for the unveiling of the reception room. Something special to point out would be my bridal bouquet. My grandmother had planted a white rose bush in West London when she was just a little girl. She not only made her own wedding bouquet out of these beautiful flowers, but she did the same for my mother’s big day and carried on the tradition by doing the same for me,” adds Kate – who had her bouquet preserved in resin for this special reason!

There are countless options to consider when it comes to choosing the design of one’s wedding cake, but Kate knew a design concept that will remain forever timeless is florals! “Our cake was a five-tiered white and gold beauty that was spilt down the middle dripping with intricate handcrafted sugar flowers down the centre. These were predominately peach to match the color palette with touches of blush and cream. The sugar flowers were then mixed with matching real roses to continue the design onto the floor and blended with lots more dreamy baby’s breath. The cascade of the flowers against the sleek mirrored table top definitely made a statement. There were four accompanying smaller wedding cakes on the dessert table designed with our theme in mind. The rest of the dessert table was covered in cake pops (my favourite type of dessert), cupcakes, and oh you can’t forget the dog cake!”

Finer details of the wedding styling also included hand-drawn calligraphy by a very talented Scottish stationer, Laura Elizabeth Patrick, a couple’s portrait which the pair had painted eight months prior and displayed on a giant golden easel with two bespoke Union Jack throne chairs. “This was a surprise reveal even for myself as we did not get to see the finished painting in person until the night of our reception with all of our family and friends,” shares Kate, “It was a big hit with the guests!”

For transport, a fleet of vintage and modern Rolls Royce cars chauffeured the bridal party to and from the ceremony, while guest were treated to quintessential British double-deck buses. “We had wonderfully bespoke menus, which were designed by me and executed by Laura. She created these in her beautiful lettering to match the other designs she’d done for us, and then these were pressed into the paper in gold-leaf!” adds Kate. “We had lots of elegant choices of champagnes being served alongside steaks and halibut with gold caviar,

Trinity House

decadent desserts, tea, coffee and cake all followed suit – we had plenty of waiters available to serve and they were all decked out in cute costumes to fit the atmosphere.”

LOOKING THE PART

“I loved wearing my wedding dress, it made me feel genuinely beautiful,” recalls Kate. “I chose fabrics that would be light and breathable as comfort was a top priority and we even added a silk pyjama-like lining inside to make me feel even more cosy.” Kate wore a custom square-neck Netta BenShabu A-line elite couture gown with an extra-long train for the ceremony, accessorised by an heirloom tiara and necklace worn by both Kate’s mother and grandmother on their wedding days. “I wore two Cartier bracelets gifted by Justin and creamy Valentino platforms. For the reception, I took off my veil and tiara and dropped the straps on my square neckline to create a fresh off-the-shoulder look,” adds Kate. After cutting the cake, the bride changed into a custom figure-hugging Reem Acra trumpet couture dress with a puddle train and a dazzling oversized crystal bow on the back. “Willis then threw my pony tail into a gorgeously spun bun and Katie added a bold winged eyeliner and a bright red lip to my look. I loved it. I pulled on my custom Kerry Parker ‘vow gloves’ and Sophia Webster butterfly shoes for our first dance. I later switched into sweet, custom ballet flats that read ‘I Do’ across the front of them for the after-party.”

Justin looked dapper in a custom light grey morning suit with tops and tails! “This look was created especially for him by a European designer in Miami name Pepi Bertini – Pepi has since become a lifetime friend of ours!” shares Kate. “Justin’s groomsmen also wore grey suits but didn’t have tailcoats nor a top-hat – we wanted the groom to shine of course!”

The groomsmen had black piping to tie in with the fathers’ black tuxedos whereas Justin’s had none. The groom also wore a shimmery white bow tie to match Kate’s glittering tulle gown and the other men all matched each other with sage-coloured bow ties. “Justin took such pride in piecing together his look and it really shows throughout our album and how he felt wearing them,” adds Kate. “When I first saw him, I was actually shocked at how hard he was crying! It made my legs shake and my heart melt. He looked even more handsome than he does on any regular day ‒ he was genuinely glowing. I felt extremely lucky and blessed in that moment. I was really excited to get down the aisle to him so he could lift up my veil and kiss me!”

The flowergirls got to play princess for the day in couture wardrobes as well, with custom gowns made from The House of Doloris Petunia. They had sweet details, like sashes, embroidered linings and monogrammed buttons.

TIME TO CELEBRATE

“I would say entertainment was the largest aspect of our wedding, behind love of course!” shares Kate. “When Justin and I first sat down together to start discussing our wedding planning ideas, we each decided to choose one category to ‘blow the budget’ on. Justin chose catering and executed it brilliantly, creating a lifelong memory for everyone involved. I happened to choose entertainment and did the same! It has been my dream since a little girl to have an immersive and memorable feel to my wedding, unlike anyone else’s. We had performers from Black Rabbit Projects Ltd from the beginning of the week to the very end. We had them playing cricket with guests at our welcome party and dancers for our rehearsal rooftop party. For the wedding day we had so much fun going on! We were only allowed ballerinas for the ceremony, but they were not allowed to be photographed until outside of the chapel. In the gardens, there were body-painted naked statue men, women dressed up as large flowers, a magician, two live artists painting portraits, a string quartet in tulle gowns, canapés coming out in hot air balloons, a Pimms bicycle, a woman with a fruit basket on her head and more! We had performers hand out bus tickets to guests to board the double decker buses onward to the reception space. When they arrived at Banqueting House, there were tons of flowers, candles and performers

dressed in white lace as bunnies outside as greeters. The bunnywomen were dropping special potions onto guests’ wrists as a fun little moment before ‘going down the rabbit hole’. As doors opened on the lower floor, body-painted performers passed out riddles and candy in the undercroft before leading guests up the stairs. Here, enormous large doors opened up to reveal women in baby blush gowns playing electric violins, and more canapés were served. When we arrived, there were flags dropped with our monogram and trumpeters to announce us as a new couple. Then it was finally time to be seated for dinner. A pianist began to play Be Our Guest from the back of the room, which tied in with our invitation suite. A live singer then came out in a big dark green tulle gown followed by lots of dancers dressed as angels. This continued throughout the night along with different types of dancers and magic from our MC magician. My favourite part of the night, and of the entertainment overall, was the flash mob moment we had with the waiters. They mixed in performers in the same outfits and then they broke out into song and dance to All You Need is Love ‒ my inspiration for this idea came from the movie, Love Actually.”

MEMORABLE MOMENTS

Of course, it’s hard to pick standout moments in a day bursting with them, but Kate shares, “My favorite part of the wedding day itself was marrying my best friend and the love of my life. When the Bridal Chorus hit and the doors opened, I found myself uncontrollably smiling as I could finally walk down the aisle towards my soulmate. I have so much admiration and adoration for Justin that I cannot really put it into words. He is a one-of-akind gem, a true top-tier human. I was actually overwhelmed by his reaction to seeing me on the day. The sparkle and tears in his eyes were just so pure, true and genuine – just like his heart. He is a real-life angel a really, really good man.”

With a few extra special moments, adding to an exceptional day, such as the churchyard gardens being made private for them (the first time in history), the dogs being there, the flash mob, and Kate’s final dress fitting – which was actually the time she was zipped into it to leave for the ceremony due to import delays and postal service strikes in the UK!

“Justin, of course, made everything extra special for me, the whole way through,” shares Kate, “He even surprised me with a sweet and meaningful speech. My mother played a huge part in my wedding dress fiasco and saving the day. She is also the sole inspiration behind the way I designed my florals for the week. She stayed up with me late the night before in my suite, at The Ned, and helped me get ready in the morning too. I bought my mum a beautiful baby blue dress and hat to match so she could be my Something Blue on my big day. My brother is my twin soul and he was my man-of-honour, his speech was very heartfelt and well-done. My uncle was a saving grace on my stress levels and kept me sane in the best way possible. St. Paul’s Cathedral would have not even been possible without my dad. These core group of people made my day extra special for me!”

KATE AND JUSTIN’S LITTLE WHITE BOOK

Event concept and venue hire, www.storiedcollection.com | Ceremony and drinks reception venue, www.stpauls.co.uk | Reception venue, www.hrp.org.uk | Pre- and post-wedding venue, www.thened.com/london | Photographer, www.davidchristopher-photography.co.uk | Bride’s dress alterations, www.taladaniel.co.uk | Bride’s custom dresses, www.nettabenshabu.com and www.reemacra.com, (Kingsley James Bridal in California and Kleinfeld Bridal in New York, respectively) | Bride’s accessories, www.cartier.com, www.jenniferbehr.com and www.kerryparker.uk Hair, www.willisgalbraith.co.uk | Make-up, www.katiedaisy.co.uk | Bridesmaids’ dresses, www.dolorispetunia.com | Groom’s suit, www.pepibertini.com | Flowers, www.lavendergreen.co.uk | Transport, www.londonretrobushire.co.uk | Stationery, www.lauraelizabethpatrick.com | Entertainment, www.blackrabbitprojects.com | Catering, www.bluestrawberrygroup.co.uk | Videography, www.deneemotion.com | Live art illustrations, www.weddingillustrator.co.uk and www.rosepopay.co.uk

AND HAPPY TIMES Sunset vibes

Emma and Seb had a beautiful wedding surrounded by loved ones

Images courtesy of Kristian Leven Photography

After meeting seven years ago on Bumble and instantly hitting it off, these lovebirds became the ultimate duo!

Seb proposed on New Year’s Eve during a walk in the Chiltern Hills. Emma says, “We had had a tough year losing Seb’s dad, Nick, earlier in the year, and Seb was keen to end on a high note. His dad chose the diamond in the ring, which was a special part of the proposal.”

Here the bride shares details about their special day…

I found the morning of the wedding quite overwhelming and was very focused on getting to the ceremony. It wasn’t until I was in the taxi on the way to Islington Town Hall that I really relaxed.

Jayne and Andi at Halcyon Halcyon were excellent! They were absolutely lovely, total professionals and they went that extra mile to make our day special.

When planning, we were both very keen to ensure the wedding was as fun for everyone as possible. We felt, after so much uncertainty and difficulties in navigating Covid-19, that we just wanted a huge party with our loved ones together.

as our guests’

By the cake table, my friend Emmy presented me with these amazing trainers she’d designed for me to dance in later that night ‒ she’s an illustrator. Emmy pointed at something and as she moved her elbow back, she put it straight into the cake. There was then an elbow-shaped dent in the middle and icing all over her. Our photographer captured the horror on her face and all our laughter.

We used a red double-decker bus

transport, supplied by London Retro Bus Hire, then an old black cab for Seb and I after the ceremony, hired from Classic London Taxis Ltd.

Seb wore a blue Paul Smith suit with a light check and a blue tie, while the groomsmen woredifferent linen suits with orange patterned ties.

Shoreditch Studios is a dry-hire venue with a fantastic blank canvas space that gave us huge scope for what we could do, and we weren’t tied to any other suppliers. The outdoor courtyard space was important too, as we wanted to make the most of the sun during the day. We live in East London and my work is in Shoreditch, so we knew we wanted a local reception venue that represented our lives together.

I wore a dress by Jenny Packham, which I bought from Frances Day Bridal in Nottingham. I immediately loved how I felt in the gown, as it was flattering and comfortable. I made some alterations to the dress, such as opening the back into a low V.

We had a floating flower cloud at the back of the studio with shades of pink, green and orange. Halcyon Halcyon did our flowers, styling and wedding plan – this was my favourite feature the team did!

Our favours were Cancer Research UK pins in the shape of a feather, which we pinned to a note about Seb’s dad and added a QR code if people wanted to donate in his memory.

The best woman, Emma, wore a silk burnt orange midi dress from The Own Studio.

Cater London created Middle Eastern sharing plates and an eton mess for pudding – yum!

We had long banquet-style tables for our wedding breakfast with small vases filled with individual flowers in sunset colours for the centrepieces.

I most enjoyed the speeches! It’s perhaps quite self-indulgent having people talk about you at great length, but I enjoyed reliving memories, and there was so much humour in each speech.

Seb and I had snippets of the day to ourselves, which were lovely! We had some time at the town hall after everyone had gone, then outside in the courtyard while our guests were seated and then again a little later, we slipped out for a walk along the streets for a few minutes. Those moments were great because they gave us time to spend the day together.

We had a pink, silver and gold shimmer curtain in the second studio with a pink neon light with our wedding date in the middle, it worked as a photo backdrop for some Instax cameras. The venue also has a mega glitter ball in the second studio, which is great.

We had a fantastic band called Party Up who played funk and soul music, as well as a half an hour medley of garage classics. It was really good fun ‒ the dancefloor was full all night!

EMMA AND SEB’S LITTLE

WHITE

BOOK Venue, www.shoreditchstudios.com | Photographer, https://kristianlevenphotography.co.uk | Bride’s dress, www.francesday.co.uk Bride’s accessories, www.missclemmie.co.uk | Hair, hannahdomney.hairstylist@gmail.com | Make-up, www.instagram.com/makeupbyjessicadean Bridesmaids’ dresses, www.theownstudio.com | Groom’s suit, www. paulsmith.com | Cake, www.cutterandsquidge.com | Taxi, www.classiclondontaxi.co.uk | Bus, www.londonretrobushire.co.uk| Stationery, www.papier.com | Entertainment, www.functioncentral.co.uk | Catering, www.caterlondon.co.uk Flowers, styling, planning and on-the-day coordination, www.halcyonhalcyon.com | Custom illustrated trainers, https://emmylupin.com

Cutter & Squidge created our three-tiered cake, each with a simple pink dash design on a white base.

Lex and Andy’s adventure began on Tinder nine years ago, where they were instantly attracted to each other! After creating magical memories together, Andy popped the question. Lex says, “Back then, we were in the middle of sprucing up our house. Picture this: cramped up in one tiny room, using a makeshift kitchen and getting creative with outdoor ‘bucket’ showers. Let’s just say romance wasn’t exactly in the air. So, what went down next totally blindsided me! I walked in after a sweaty, dusty day at work and I couldn’t help but notice vases of flowers strategically placed all around the construction zone. As I ventured into the main room, Andy had turned the place into a floral wonderland, complete with twinkling lights and a sign that said, ‘You’re the bricks to my mortar’. Shock didn’t even begin to cover it ‒ I was so stunned and couldn’t even get a single word out at first. We were at our favourite rooftop bar an hour later, surrounded by our nearest and dearest. Talk about a whirlwind of a day!”

The couple had a ceremony during the pandemic but later created a magical day to celebrate with loved ones.

Here the bride shares details about their special day…

LIVE, LOVE

laugh

Lex and Andy’s wedding was injected with plenty of fun

Images courtesy of Beatrici Photography

We both agreed from day one that we wanted guests to have plenty of fun. We wanted the wedding to be light-hearted and filled with silliness.

Before the wedding, we were a bit sceptical about it being labelled as ‘the best day of your life,’ but now we’re on the same page – it truly was. We were both genuinely surprised by how much we savoured every single moment. The whole experience was undeniably magical.

As I work in the wedding industry, I wanted a venue I’d never worked at; this was a bit of a pickle, considering I’d covered most properties in London. But then, we’re out for a walk and stumble upon Myatt’s Field Park. I turned to Andy and blurted, ‘Imagine us getting married on that bandstand,’ and it turned out the space hosts weddings! It was like the universe aligned – it was the ideal spot for our big day.

During our personalised humanist ceremony, we paused to remember those who couldn’t be with us. As the music began to play and everyone took a moment of reflection, a stunning butterfly gently landed on Andy’s back. It stayed there throughout the entire song, only fluttering away as the celebrant resumed speaking ‒ it was a truly poignant moment. I lost my dad a few years ago and in my heart, I can’t help but think it was him coming to give his blessing.

I rocked a Gabija dress from Jurgita Bridal! I was all about that easy-breezy vibe, and this dress totally delivered with that playful, feel I was going for. Plus, the floral pattern was like a subtle nod to flowers.

I kept the accessories minimal since the dress had a stunning pattern. I had pearls pinned and delicately woven into my hair, adding a touch of elegance. Massive shoutout to Portrait Bridal too for filling me with so much confidence ‒ their magic worked wonders!

My fabulous bride tribe owned the show in bold, mismatched pink suits. They added their flair through unique accessories that perfectly matched their individual styles.

Oh, let’s talk cake! We had rich chocolate sponge teamed up with spiced mascarpone cream ‒ a flavour explosion! The amazing Hannah from Hannah Bakes whipped up an adorable minirug cake that was scrumptious for our civil ceremony. We decided to kick it up a notch for the big day!

We had the excellent Maple & Rae tie together all our stationery. The colour theme was pink and red, but we didn’t want it to be too obvious. We loved all the designs, especially the curved edges.

Owning a flower company put a lot of pressure on deciding what flowers we wanted for such a special day. Ultimately, we decided to keep things simple and go for seasonal flowers grown in the UK. Our ceremony was filled with hydrangeas, forming fluffy cloud shapes, and we used red and pink dahlias for the wedding breakfast.

Our catering was seriously on point, and the food was an absolute hit. We went for a menu that included a mouth-watering panzanella salad and a seabream dish that was the most incredible thing I have eaten. Doggart & Squash Ltd couldn’t have done a better job.

Our evening venue was another stroke of luck as we stumbled upon the awesome indie cinema just a short walk from the park. You have to credit Google for coming in the clutch; it really does have its moments!

We had a fantastic Jazz band for our evening party in the cinema. The set flowed seamlessly from Rat Pack and Jive classics; it was perfect, and everyone was up on the dancefloor having the time of their lives.

We took our 18-monthold to Mauritius for our honeymoon, the best trip ever, and we extended our stay by a week ‒ a very yolo moment.

LEX AND ANDY’S LITTLE WHITE BOOK Venues, www.myattsfieldspark.info and www.whirledcinema.com | Photographer, https://beatriciphotography.co.uk | Bride’s dress, https://jurgitabridal.com | Hair and make-up, www.portraitsbridalhairandmakeup.com | Cake, https://hannahbakeslondon.com

Flowers and styling, www.lexhamilton.co.uk | Stationery, www.mapleandrae.co.uk | Entertainment, www.jazzbomb.com | Catering, www.doggartandsquash.com | Celebrant, www.instagram.com/bens.house | Stretch tent, www.stretchandtents.co.uk/hire

Andy nailed his outfit! He wore a laid-back yet stylish linen suit and his pièce de resistance was his signature shoe - the Boston Birkenstock.

WISHING HUE A wonderful wedding day

From delicate tones

in spring to crisp shades in winter, colour schemes are vital

to curating your dream wedding. Not only is a colour palette  important when deciding what atmosphere you wish to create, but it will also ensure the theme is timeless when you look back through photographs post-vows. Choosing a scheme of two to four main colours depending on your chosen theme creates gateways for inspiration and aesthetics across various on-the-day styling elements.

SPRING WEDDINGS

As flowers begin to bloom you’ll see colour schemes reflected in nature, with frequent hues of peach, lilac, sage and azure. This season of new life and fresh starts will manifest and relate to a couple’s new chapter in life ‒ their wedding. The balance of sunshine and cloud coverage will be sure to make the soft, yet striking tones of your styling choices pop in photos.

For a rustic spring wedding, soft pinks and blues incorporating subtle floral elements will delicately complement any wedding. Blush pink bridesmaid dresses are a traditional choice, allowing your wedding to embrace full elegance, while you can implement large amounts of light blue through the suits and table runners, for a contrasting air of fantasy.

A spring garden approach develops a seasonal and romantic atmosphere, with the use of pastel shades and plenty of flowers. This scheme is versatile and could be adapted to suit almost any venue, although a botanical venue whether that be a woodland, historical site or vineyard will really make this theme shine.

When it comes to stationery, gentle pastel tones of blues, pinks or sage with the use of floral designs and foliage are recommended think: fresh, floral and fun!

SUMMER WEDDINGS

Summertime can be ideal for outdoor weddings and the collaboration of natural and artificial colours can be mixed to find your ideal combination.

With vibrant summer themes such as tropical, carnival and retro surf, it‘s no surprise that vivid yellows, oranges  and greens are popular. While these schemes can be quite bold and lively, they can also be warm and relaxed, the options are boundless! Hues can be selected to match the intended atmosphere of a wedding, whilst using opposing tones of the colour wheel to form pops of colour in photos.

A light blue and coral scheme can set a vibe of playfulness, why not opt for light blue bridesmaid dresses, ties, stationery and tablecloths, offset with a dreamy bouquet of coral and cream? You can employ small details of coral throughout the wedding styling using the larger statement pieces to show off the blue hue.

For the theme of ‘retro surf’, implement an arrangement of bold yellows and pinks for an energetic and zesty look. Often these citrus-inspired hues complement natural accents such as wood or leather allowing couples the freedom to experiment with different textures too for a true outdoor-wedding-vibe!

As we pass through the seasons of this year and next, colour schemes can vary and adapt with trends. Here editorial assistant Jess Bayley has created a guide to inspire you for your own big day

AUTUMN WEDDINGS

The charm of an autumn wedding is irresistible; the leaves changing colour and foliage increasing, it can also be a season for an outside wedding, with picturesque and colourful views for photos – be sure to wrap up warm though!

When opting for a big day at this time of year, a ‘golden glow’ colour scheme can be combined with warmer tones of terracotta, saffron and maple ‒ watch a mature and earthy feel transpire. For that much-needed colour pop, mustard is an on-trend hue to brighten the look. This colour scheme also works well with a more bohemian approach using natural material, think: linens, rattan, macramé and hessian.

Metallic tones such as bronze or copper offer a sophisticated spin on an autumn wedding. Perhaps a coppereffect seating arrangement and table decorations ‒beautifully compatible with green foliage!

By displaying your wedding cake on a copper cake stand, the scheme will follow into a focal point of your wedding, you can even implement your colour palette into the cake decoration itself with edible gold leaf detailing.

WINTER WEDDINGS

As temperatures begin to decrease, colour schemes can begin to cool with forest green, icy white, frosted blue and glistening silver being go-to winter wedding hues. But these colours can go hand in hand with some warmer earthy tones such as red, berry and brown ‒ rich in life and sumptuous additions.

Green and berry tones are a classic and timeless combination creating a festive atmosphere which can incorporated into any venue ‒ some may already have their Christmas decorations up you can utilise! Bring the outside-in with plenty of natural garlands such as ivy, fern and holly displayed around the venue.

When it comes to choosing a style for the wedding cake, opt for a simplistic design with the focus on nature-inspired decoration such as pinecones, velvet ribbons and holly to reinstate the theme. Along with the cake, a bouquet can also be kept simple with the use of white flowers, green leaves and red berries, often the addition of red among white flowers creates a pop of colour and adds some much-needed warmth for the time of year.

An aqua and silver scheme considers the cool tones of winter, forming a regal and icy atmosphere for the wedding. This sophisticated palette can be emphasised through greys and blues in décor as well within the groom’s and groomsmens’ suits. For a bride, a pair of diamond white or aquamarine blue earrings can add subtle hints of the theme complementing a white dress.

When it comes to decorating a venue, fairy lights can add warmth to the frozen aura of a winter wedding, making you feel as though you are under the stars, a magical way to end celebrations as the evening draws in.

At Chefsecrets we understand that your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. Our team is dedicated to cra ing a culinary experience which is one of a kind. With a passion for exceptional food, impeccable service and attention to detail, we promise to make your wedding day unforgettable. Remember, your love story is unique and so should your wedding menu be.

www.chefsecrets.co.uk info@chefsecrets.co.uk @chefsecrets

FOOD,

glorious food

Finding the perfect catering company is essential to creating wow-factor weddings. Food brings people together, and it’s something your loved ones will remember long after the special day. It’s important to hire an expert who can guide you through the experience, offer advice and spot any issues before they arise; on the day, you can relax knowing you’re in good hands! Here’s a handful of suppliers from around London to be inspired by.

CHILLI TUK TUK

Deepak Lall, founder, says…

Multi-award-winning Chilli Tuk Tuk brings you a classic and creative catering offering. With a delicious menu curated by our expert chefs and displayed to wow your guests, we’ll take the hassle out of organising food so you can enjoy your special event! All those exciting celebrations are covered whether it’s weddings, pre- or post-wedding events such as bridal showers and stag dos.

From true classics like Hyderabad biryani, Kolkata jalfrezi or Lucknow bhuna to more contemporary delights like kofta quail scotch eggs, spiced chicken vol-au-vents and hara bhara kabab sliders, our exciting menu is bursting with lush flavours and has so much to offer.

Add a touch of luxe to the on-the-day cuisine with stylish grazing tables, high chai afternoon tea and catchy table settings ‒ we can even personalise display settings to your theme!

Chilli Tuk Tuk’s focus is on providing you and your guests with an elevated food experience and a memorable event. Visit www.chilli-tuktuk.co.uk

BORN & RAISED

Tom Dewey, owner/director, says...

Born & Raised are an East London-based pizzeria catering at weddings and events around the South East since 2013. We bake our sourdough pizzas at 500°C in two Land Rover Defenders converted with wood-burning ovens. We make all our own dough with British-milled flour and source our ingredients as locally as possible.

We can provide both full sit-down catering with starters, pizzas and salads as well as more casual set-ups with guests coming up and helping themselves from our truck.

Visit www.bornandraisedpizza.com

COCOTTE CATERING

Anna Caldicott and Fiona Cochrane, head chef and event manager, say…

Cocotte Catering is a small company based in South East London, created from a shared love of food, wine, events and friendly hospitality.

Weddings are a highlight of our calendar, and we love working with clients to ensure the food at their wedding is a highlight of the day. The most popular style of dining at the moment is family-style feasting, which creates an atmosphere of conviviality and really gets guests talking and making friends around the table. Our feasting menus are varied and delicious, with all dietary requirements catered for. We focus on seasonality and, most importantly, taste! We want our clients’ guests to be talking about the food long after the wedding, so all our recipes are carefully designed to ensure they are fresh, delicious and beautifully presented.

We also offer cold feasts for those awkward venues without a kitchen. This way, our clients can enjoy a three-course feast on a tighter budget without missing out on a varied menu or compromising flavour.

We specialise in delicious, vibrant canapés and constantly design and perfect our recipes. Our feasting menu even includes a 45-minute canapé reception to start your reception with a bang! We’ve also developed a speciality delivery canapé menu for smaller weddings and drinks receptions. Often hailed as the most delicious canapés guests have ever eaten, their popularity is growing – especially for smaller budgets or tight turnarounds! Food should be central to your wedding day; eating together creates bonds and friendships, crucial to creating the perfect wedding atmosphere your guests will remember long after the last dance. Visit www.cocottecatering.co.uk

OTHER POPULAR OPTIONS

• Ser ving an afternoon tea after the ceremony is a perfect addition to the day. There’s something for everyone, from finger sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, cakes, and other sweet treats.

• Outdoor mobile bars are popular for outdoor weddings during the summer months. With many different styles available, you will find a bar matching your wedding theme and favourite drink options. You could even create a personalised cocktail to give your day a personal touch. To add some entertainment for guests, why not host a cocktail masterclass?

• There’s a reason doughnut walls have been so popular at weddings over the last few years. Adults and children alike will go crazy for the tasty treats.

• With many options available for favours, picking one can be difficult. We’ve found that some of the most popular options include personalised sweets, biscuits, chocolate lollipops and mini bottles of your favourite tipple.

• One trend that has really kicked off over the last year is a grazing

CAIGER & CO CATERING

Alix Caiger, director, says…

Caiger & Co Catering launched in 2012 with the aim of being London’s truly bespoke event caterers. Our personalised experience allows us to curate, innovate and design unique events to bring something more to the table. We cater for all sizes and types of weddings, especially within London and the home counties, bringing our passion and creativity to every brief. Taking pride in working alongside carefully selected artisan producers, sustainable and seasonal produce is at the heart of every bespoke offering we create.

The luxury we produce is the most personalised service you could dream of receiving, from designing the brief to the delivery, whether it’s a traditional three-course menu or an open-fire barbecue.

Our ethos means that as well as having a sustainable system from the kitchen to the event, we also reflect that social thinking into our social enterprise commitments; this circular production makes us unique and special to our clients.

We can also help by supplying the best tables, linens, glassware and crockery to fit your theme and the atmosphere you want to create during your wedding. We work alongside fantastic suppliers and can suggest or arrange for you florists and decorations to add a special touch to your event.

Visit: www.caigerandcocatering.co.uk

platter with artisan cheeses, meats, nuts, fruits, crackers, breads and more. This option will be popular with loved ones and is a great way to encourage interaction between guests.

• Perfect for summer weddings, ice creams are a great alternative to traditional desserts with various flavours and toppings – it’s also great at cooling guests down.

• Add an element of fun to your wedding with a sweet cart full of your favourite treats. The cart is perfect for those with a sweet tooth and will provide snacks throughout the reception for guests to enjoy!

• Adults and children alike will love watching their food being prepared right before their eyes. A hog roast is the perfect addition to evening receptions to stop guests from going hungry.

©Tim Smyth

Soiree 360 is a game changer in the events industry

It is a family-run business with many members from different specialty backgrounds helping to make any event special. Some of their popular services are the 360 Video Booth, Vouge Booth, Boomerang and Photos, Video Book as well as the new trending Audio Guestbook.

Additionally, Soiree has dry hire items such as Champagne Cart, Centre Pieces, Balloon Ring which is a great addition for any couple that would like to DIY and add their own special touches.

The duo has been involved in many intimate celebrations of many brands, celebrities, artists and influencers in which trust and privacy has also been highly acknowledged in their services.

info@soiree360events.com

07944 872870

‘Sarika the Celebrant’

Choose ‘Sarika Celebrates’ and add a sparkle to your special day!

For bespoke ceremonies including ‘Weddings’ & ‘Renewal of Vows’ Contact

Email:

PEARLY QUEEN

Female-founded jewellery brand Pearloir has just launched a new collection perfect for brides. It includes plenty of pearly pieces, including these Giselle baroque pearl-encrusted cubic zirconia earrings, £140 and matching Majestic baroque pearl choker, £115, https://pearloir.com

EDITOR’S PICK

Say I do wearing a gold vermeil initial necklace, £145, www.antoniaguise.co.uk

It’s all white

The latest Fiesta Collection from Gossard will offer support under a wedding dress while looking romantic and stylish too. Sizes range from 32A to 38E and prices start from just £18, www.gossard.com

FASHION

Fashion editor Claire Ridley reveals the latest bridal news, buys and launches

Purse-friendly pieces

This white gold-plated freshwater pearl bracelet, £70, is from the new affordable luxury jewellery brand Maudella. This first collection is a mix of contemporary everyday styles with some timeless classics and a few statement pieces for that extra wow factor! The full range comes in both 18-carat gold or white gold plating with prices starting from £35 up to £130, https://maudella.co.uk

WINGS OF LOVE

The new bridal collection from British jeweller Kirstie Le Marque includes these on-trend angel wing earrings, £350, www.kirstielemarque.com

NEVER FULLY DRESSED

focus

Beauty sleep

Guarantee some shut-eye in one of these 100% mulberry silk eye masks, £45 each, available in ivory and champagne, https://janedarcy.ie

This Lillianna pyjama short set, £98, is from the newly launched brand Mia Amore and is perfect for getting ready on the morning of the wedding. The latest range features timeless silk, satin and lace collections in an inclusive range of sizes from UK8 to 24, www.mia-amore.uk

Honey-coloured velvet headband, £120, www.crown-love.com

Dresses, from a selection, www.pronovias.com

Burnt orange sandals, £105, www.rainbowclub.co.uk

Orange multi-way dress, £99, Kates Dresses at www.silkfred.com

Accessorize

Mini oval locket necklace, £95, www.astleyclarke.com

9-carat gold and cubic zirconia earring and pendant set, £99.99, www.hsamuel.co.uk

Tan-coloured clutch bag, £29.99, https://katieloxton.com

Style

ALERT

Burnt orange, green and champagne tones are trending for bridesmaids this season

Green halter dress, £85, https://clubllondon.com

Crystal cross-body bag, £32, www.next.co.uk

Gold glitter sandals, £625, https://diminnoshoes.com

Sterling silver bracelet with seeded pearls, £179, www.clogau.co.uk

Celestial-inspired watch, from £129, www.oliviaburton.com

Orange bridesmaids’ dress, £92, www.jjshouse.co.uk

Olive green satin dress, £120, https://wearerewritten.com

Sequin tassel mini dress, £89, www.belissh.com

Champagne-coloured drape neck maxi dress, £85, https://stylecheat.com

Copper and gold slip dresses, from £90, https://graceloveslace.co.uk

Rainbow tulle bag with embellished handle, £580, www.lalingi.com

For the little lovelies

Party dress, £465, https://quinnharper.co.uk

All DRESSED UP

The new season bridal edit of dreamy dresses features delicate details, fairytale-inspired florals and flowing fabrics

Standout sleeves

Make your entrance in style wearing statement sleeves that will take you from day to dancefloor

Sagall dress by www.airebarcelona.com/en-gb

Dress by www.hermionedepaula.com

Cherry Blossom dress by https://clairepettibone.com

Selene dress by www.katherinetash.com

Motif dress by https://inesdisanto.com

Dress by www.eseazenabor.com

Rowen by www.kellyfaetanini.com

Bloom dress by Marchesa for www.pronovias.com

Adele by www.lihihod.com

Carey dress by www.andreahawkes.co.uk

Memphis dress by www.rosaclara.es/en

Dress by www.madelinegardnernewyork.com/en

Scan

YOUR BIG-DAY BOOST

anatome is an apothecary created in London by Brendan Murdock. The brand’s supplements have been formulated with the finest, scientific ingredients and botanical adaptogenics to support the body as it faces daily challenges. They’re especially designed to offer solutions to key issues, such as gut health, menopause, hormonal imbalance and fatigue. These blends promise to restore a sense of joy and wellbeing.

The Women’s Health Essentials Duo, £54.40, includes Women’s Daily Wellbeing + Hormonal Support Supplement, and the Essential Daily Probiotic + Gut Support. The former is a blend of vitamins, minerals and botanicals, which help boost energy levels, balance hormones, and support a healthy immune response by providing key nutrients missing from most daily diets. Meanwhile, the latter offers a step towards a healthier lifestyle via beneficial bacteria to replenish the gut, and strengthen the immune system to fight viruses and bacterial infections. Check out www.anatome.co

TEAR-PROOF YOUR LASHES

Weddings come with lashings of emotions – crying from happiness as you say “I do,”welling up at the groom’s speech, or just plain old sobbing during your first dance. Thankfully Ardell’s latest launch is the solution to all your emotional big-day problems. Ardell’s Active Lashes retain their 3D curl even through tears and dancing sweat, creating an eye lift that won’t quit. Beautifully made with lustrous black fibres on a flexible band that’s easy to apply and comfortable to wear, these lashes offer vivacious volume, instant lift and tear-proof long wear. Find them at Superdrug for £7.99.

BUZZ Beauty

Get the look with the latest must-haves

ON-THE-GO HYDRATION

Is your skin feeling tight? Is it looking dull or dry? Are visible fine lines and wrinkles appearing? Is your make-up just not sitting right? If you’ve answered “yes” to any of these questions you’re most likely one of the 90 per cent of the population who suffer from dehydrated skin. The 3 in 1 Hyaluronic Skin Mist from Ella & Jo is your convenient solution. Its formula provides fastabsorbing, long-lasting hydration that you can carry with you. It offers the perfect pick-me-up before the speeches or dancefloor.

£26, https://ellaandjo.co.uk

TOO CUTE!

Iconic lip-care giant Carmex has announced a line of irresistible miniature Carmex coin purses in collaboration with quintessential British brand Anya Hindmarch. The recognisable little yellow pot is a staple of many a make-up bag, but can often get away from you, rolling around at the bottom of a handbag. Enter this oh-so cute coin purse, keeping the essential little pot safe and easy to access. Made from shiny capra leather and boasting a tassle zip pull, lobster clasp, Carmex logo and Anya Hindmarch gold-tone bow, this limited-edition offering is destined to become a collector’s item. £225, www.anyahindmarch.com

ABSOLUTELY FLAWLESS

The Cloud Beauty Blender, £9.50 from Bedew Skin, lets you apply your liquid cosmetic products flawlessly. A super-soft and bouncy beauty blender, it expands and softens when wet to give your skin a glowing finish befitting any bride. Simply soak in cold water and squeeze out the excess before use. It’s available in black and light grey. Check out https://bedewskin.co.uk

SMOOTH OPERATOR

Most of us long for baby soft, smooth and hydrated skin; especially if you’re preparing to look your big-day best or have more flesh on show while away on honeymoon. The honey-coloured Q+A AHA

Exfoliator Body Scrub works a treat at buffing away dead skin cells and build-up, and at banishing lizard skin. Making light work of any bumpy and rough patches, pimples, and hyperpigmentation, it resurfaces to reveal a brighter base. A sensorial experience, it combines golden vanilla, coconut, crisp apple, macadamia, exotic papaya, and honeyed amber. Yum. £8, www.qandaskin.com

A BRIDE’S BEST FRIEND

Jessica Rose Skincare is the first range of its kind to be designed exclusively for brides. Developed by bridal make-up artist Jessica Rose alongside leading skincare experts, the aim is to help brides whose lack of skincare routine or product knowledge may result in a less than satisfying make-up finish on their big day. This range can help you feel confident in your own skin, and ensure that your wedding face sits better, lasts longer and stays in place for a flawless look in your treasured photographs.

The four-step routine is designed to be used for at least six months before your wedding day, and contains all-natural ingredients including damask rose chosen for its calming, soothing and hydrating properties. See www.jessicaroseskincare.co.uk where you can also find bridal skincare tips and wedding-morning advice.

BEHIND THE MASK

Skin Laundry, a revolutionary skincare brand hailing from California boasts a variety of products ideal for achieving that pre-wedding glow. I love the Hydrating Facial Sheet Mask – an absolute treat! A must-try for any bride, they’re biodegradable and formulated with sodium hyaluronate, vitamins, amino acids, and natural plant extract. Each mask saturates dry, tired skin leaving it hydrated, replenished, relaxed and refreshed! Priced £40, https://store-uk.skinlaundry.com

ORANGE YOU GLAD YOU TRIED IT?

I won’t lie, when Huda Beauty’s new #FauxFilter Colour Correctors Correct & Brighten turned up in the office, their orangey hues made me think the brand’s boffins had lost the plot! How wrong was I? These little wonders harness the power of colour theory by using opposing colours to neutralise unwanted discolouration. The peachy tones cancel out darkness and pigmentation to create even skin, which explains why this is the best product I’ve ever used for concealing my dark under-eye circles. Never again will I question Huda Beauty! £26, https://hudabeauty.com

WOODEN HEART

Luxury British skincare brand Ashmira Botanica is formulated with high quality natural ingredients packed with natural plant extracts, essential oils, and clays, is completely vegan, and formulated in small batches to minimise its ecological footprint.

Inspired by Chinese medicine, the core concept is derived from the ancient philosophy of the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. The holistic, natural treatments can be personalised based on your biorhythm (year of birth), current skincare issues, and/or emotions, as well as being tuned to the season and time of year.

I recently met the brand’s founder Tracey at a wedding show and discovered that my element is wood, she then proceeded to describe me to a tee based on this, which was eerily fascinating! Head over to the website, https://ashmirabotanica.com, to discover your own element and check out the box sets. The Ashmira Botanica Wood Gift Set, £45, includes a 25g pot of Elemental Clay Powder, 5ml Elemental Elixir, 15ml Rice Balm Face Cream and 100ml Organic Rose Hydrosol.

ENHANCE THAT FLUTTER

Designed to build longer-looking natural lashes in just a few weeks with a superprecise applicator, Babe Essential Lash Serum boasts an ultra-nourishing formula including biotin and amino acids to boost your lash line and lash retention over time. It’s your evening routine essential, and is even safe to use while wearing extensions and strip lashes. Stand by for eyelash envy! £80, www.beautybay.com

Lady of the dance

Beauty and wellness editor, Kelly Andrews, talks to Strictly’s Luba Mushtuk about health, wellbeing and the all-important first dance

Mushtuk has been a pro dancer on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing since 2016. On a break between tours, she took some time out to chat to our beauty and wellness editor, Kelly Andrews. Here, she shares her top health and wellbeing tips for soon-to-be weds, as well as giving us the lowdown on how she keeps fit and healthy when she’s not performing on the show or touring.

Luba

We understand you’re a fan of getting outdoors to exercise. Where do you most love to go?

I love the outdoors especially on those rare sunny days. I’m a big sun lover! One of my favourite spots in London where I go for a run and exercise outdoors is Hampstead Heath; it’s so big and full of nature, with a great view over the city. I love being out in the fresh air.

How did you discover your passion for dance and decide to make it a career?

It all started when I fell in love with a skirt that my mum made for me when I was around three years old. I was a very naughty child, but once I had music and a skirt I was just off dancing by myself, rather than making a mess around the house! That was why my mum was so keen for me to keep dancing, it kept me out of trouble!

From the age of four, I started competing. My oldest brother was already a dancer by that time and gave me a lot of lessons at home, so even at four I was very advanced compared to my peers. I guess the universe made a decision for me, I never even questioned my career path, as I’d already been doing it my whole life. I can’t even imagine doing anything else.

What is the proudest moment of your career so far?

I’m proud of how I’m able to communicate my passion and love for dance with millions of people and hopefully make them feel every single emotion I’m expressing through my art. Being on TV is so amazing, as you can bring joy to so many people, and hopefully inspire them too.

How did you get involved with Strictly?

I started as an assistant choreographer in 2016, which I did for two years and absolutely loved working behind the scenes. I always dreamed of being a professional dancer on the show though, so I’m grateful it happened that way.

What style would you suggest a couple learn for their first dance as beginners, even for those of us with two left feet!

The first dance is such a special moment and should be magical. I’ve choreographed a good few for for my friends, I love doing them, but it all depends on music choice. Once, I did a wedding dance mix of eight songs complete with a change of a dress. It’s about the couple, music choice and what they really want. A waltz or American smooth are both good choices for a classic first dance but if you want something a bit different, more fun, just go for it!

Tell us about your own healthy living regime. How do you stay fit and healthy in between series and tours?

It’s so important to stay healthy while on tour, as our schedule is so busy. But I also keep fit and healthy between tours and building up to Strictly Come Dancing. It’s actually very simple for me – I eat very clean and exercise daily, whether that’s pilates, a run, boxing, or dance. I also think sleep is such an important part of staying healthy. I certainly love my beauty sleep – I never get less than seven hours and always try to listen to my body.

What does a typical day look like for you? How does your fitness and wellness regime fit in?

If you want to fit it in, you will. It’s all about prioritising fitness and wellness that makes you feel good. I think you’re more likely to stick to a schedule if you work out in the morning, then there’s less chance of something coming up in the day that can cause exercise to fall down the list of priorities. Doing it first thing means you can’t push it back. There’s also something to be said for putting yourself first – do something for you first thing.

My typical day starts with an early morning workout, I find it sets the

tone for the rest of the day. I finish the workout feeling strong, energetic and proud that I started the day with something positive. I obviously love dancing, but I’ve been really enjoying pilates recently too.

Following that, I’ll eat breakfast, have some coffee, check my diary to make sure I don’t miss any commitments, then let the day begin.

What keeps you motivated?

I find motivation within myself. I’m constantly looking to improve and become better than I was yesterday. I think that this attitude is part of being a professional dancer, you have to want to keep pushing to be better.

I’m driven to grow and evolve as a person too. I love learning and experiencing new things. I think it’s important to broaden your knowledge and change as you gain experience, which is why I try to always say “yes” to new opportunities, even if they seem scary or risky at the time.

I also find motivation in the people around me. Whether it’s family, friends, or people I work with. I’m constantly inspired by them and their achievements.

What are your top tips for a couple looking to get in shape for their wedding, and how can they maintain it once it’s back to reality with a bump?

It’s a common goal for couples to get into shape for their big day. It might be obvious, but my advice would be to focus on both nutrition and daily movement. Eating a balanced diet that includes wholefoods and avoiding highly processed, sugary foods can make a huge difference to how you feel. It’s also very important to keep hydrated and get enough sleep. I believe to look good you must feel good.

In terms of movement, finding an exercise routine that works for both partners can be helpful. You could schedule some joint sessions and some separately. For example, if you’re learning some fresh moves for your first dance you could take a dance class together (and learning that will get you into shape let me tell you!). Then, perhaps a running session apart, if that makes sense for your schedule. It’s also nice to have some ‘me’ time.

For maintaining after the wedding, I think it’s important to remember how good the new routine made you feel. But most of all, remember to love your body whatever shape you are. Beauty comes from the confidence within, so make sure if you’re looking to get into shape, you’re doing it to be stronger and healthier. Getting in shape is not always easy, but it can be a rewarding experience.

If you could tell people about one simple, initial change we could all make to our lives to start us out on the path to a healthier lifestyle, body and mind, what would it be?

Personally, I’ve found our minds and bodies are completely interconnected, and if you love yourself, you’ll fuel your body and mind with good nutrition, movement and affirmations. So, I think making a commitment to self-care and self-love is the initial step needed to make positive lifestyle changes. Then to look after your physical self, perhaps start with smaller changes that are achievable. If you’re early in your journey, you could start to get to know your body better by doing 10 minutes of stretching every morning, or if you’re slightly further along, start a new fitness class.

Whatever changes you choose to make, the key is to stay committed and consistent. Remember to be patient with yourself and celebrate your progress along the way.

You’re an incredibly busy lady, how do you maintain a healthy mind amidst the pressures of a hectic schedule?

Maintaining a healthy mindset throughout a hectic schedule is just

something that comes with experience, it’s definitely become easier over time! I’ve learned what I need to prioritise in order to make sure I can remain consistent. This means exercising in the morning, spending time meditating, and keeping an organised diary. Now I’m able to just get things done without thinking about it, but that’s only because I’ve managed to put in the time and hard work to figure it all out. Be patient with yourself and stay committed, and you’ll get there, wherever it is you want to go.

Is there anything you can suggest to calm the stress levels during wedding planning?

Try to remember that it’s a blessing to have met the love of your life, that both committing to each other for a lifetime is a beautiful thing and the rest is just details.

I’m a very organised person and I love to plan things, but I can imagine that planning something as big as a wedding would be super stressful. If you’re lucky enough to have friends or family members who want to support you with the planning, maybe take them up on it! Or if you can afford it, seek support from a professional wedding planner.

It’s also important to remember that your wedding day is about you and your partner, and not about pleasing everyone else. I’ve heard a lot of my friends who’ve got married say that it’s impossible to please everyone. So, I suppose you can remove some of that stress by prioritising what you want and what makes you both happy, whether that means having a big wedding or eloping. Don’t feel pressured to conform to society’s expectations or what others want from or for you.

What’s next for you?

My goal is to continue growing, continuing to improve my craft, and grab on to any opportunities that inspire and challenge me! I love life so I’m just going to keep on living and hopefully I’ll have many more wonderful opportunities to inspire others.

You can follow Luba on Instagram at www.instagram.com/lubamushtuk, and catch her on Strictly Come Dancing on BBC1 this autumn.

All images courtesy of www.instagram.com/lubamushtuk

Best face forward

Beauty editor Kelly Andrews investigates the much-discussed bridal must-have treatment, HydraFacial

Asbeauty editor here at County Wedding Magazines I get to talk to a lot of bridal make-up artists and skincare specialists, and have heard them recommend a course of HydraFacials on many an occasion. It’s suitable for all skin types and addresses all skincare needs, so this apparently is the best way forward to glowing big-day skin. I needed to investigate for myself so, I headed to my local HydraFacial provider, The Melrose Clinic in Leigh-on-Sea, quick smart.

I was lucky enough to have the chance to give the gold level HydraFacial a whirl, and my treatment begun with a cleanse before my therapist, Cornelia, went in with a lymphatic drainage massage. This stage is designed to assist your body’s natural ability to recycle, by opening up its lymphatic system. It helps to get rid of toxins built up in the skin, as well as reducing puffiness.

The first step of the HydraFacial proper is an exfoliation, offering the skin a second, deeper cleanse. The system uses vortex technology, a vacuum to the uninitiated, via the device’s wand, which is where the magic happens. HydraFacial works with several highly-regarded professional brands including JLO Beauty, Murad, ZO Skin Health and Circadia to produce signature products especially for this treatment and its associated technology.

The liquid is released into the tip of the wand, which is then passed over the face. Meanwhile, the technology delivers deeper product penetration and longer-lasting results than a traditional facial ever could. The first solution, Active Pore, contains algae extract, lacid acid and glucosamine. Nothing too harsh, and it works to give the skin a deep exfoliation.

Next is a light GlySal peel, so called as it contains both glycolic and salicylic acids. When you book the recommended course of

HydraFacials, your therapist will gradually move you through the strengths – 7.5 per cent, 15 per cent, and 30 per cent. It’s important not to shock the skin, so they’ll check all the way to make sure it’s happy and reacting well before moving to the more intense versions.

The peel opens up the pores and exfoliates even more deeply than the previous exfoliation step. You’ll also find it has a brightening effect and helps with breakouts, no doubt music to your ears as you prepare for your big day.

Moving on to the extraction part of the process, the vacuum technology comes into its own removing black heads from the nose, and is much kinder to the skin than squeezing them out. Although I didn’t have any blackheads, I do struggle with an oily T-zone, so this was one of the most satisfying sections for me. Be gone dirt and debris!

The chemical peel is then neutralised before moving on to the booster, exclusive to the gold level. During my consultation at the beginning of the treatment, we’d discovered that my skin was particularly dehydrated. The sudden temperature change hadn’t been doing it any favours and what I thought were just dry skin patches, turned out to be eczema. So, my therapist selected Hydraglucan by Nassif MD. As well as a healthy helping of hyaluronic acid it also contains glucosamine, which aids collagen production and softens skin tissue. My skin was so parched, it soaked the product up in double quick time, literally lapping up every drop of goodness from the booster.

I was next put under red LED and infrared lights to bring any redness down and ensure the serum fully penetrated the skin. These also heal, which was great news for my eczema patches. There’s also a blue light option, which is likely the one your therapist will opt for if you suffer from breakouts as it’s antibacterial. I relaxed beneath the glow for 15 minutes, while I tried not to doze off, so relaxed was I by this point.

Finally, came the skin infusion, the part that makes the complexion really glow. It contains hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, arnica to calm, and mineral skin conditioners – copper, magnesium and zinc.

If you ask your therapist at the end, they’ll show you the gunky jar! This is where all of the extractions from your skin end up. To be fair, mine could have been worse. But knowing the content of that jar was once stored in the pores of my face and now isn’t, was super-satisfying. No lie, I’ve been talking about this treatment since I left the clinic. I entered with utterly miserable skin and over the next few days it began to feel clearer, lighter and crucially was responding to the skin care I was applying. I’m happy to report that I’m so pleased with the result, I no longer feel self-conscious when I dare to go out make-up free. I can only imagine the results following a full course.

For brides-to-be a course of six HydraFacials six months before the big day is recommended. This allows time for the chemical peel intensity to be increased gradually and have optimum effect. It’s advised that your final treatment be left no later than a week prior to the wedding just in case of any adverse reactions. The most popular option amongst nearlyweds is the silver HydraFacial, priced at £140 the cost comes down when you book a course, and includes everything I’ve talked about above, minus the booster serum.

Contact your local HydraFacial provider to learn more. You can find your nearest at https://hydrafacial.co.uk

RING OF CHANGES

What advice can you share when it comes to finding our dream wedding rings?

It’s worth visiting a jewellery store and trying different styles of wedding bands, which can also be a fun aspect of wedding planning.

It’s essential to consider your lifestyle and daily activities. If you have an active lifestyle, go for a more durable material like platinum or tungsten that can withstand potential scratches ‒avoid a ring with diamonds!

Pay attention to comfort, fit and how well it pairs with your engagement ring if you have one; opting for a diamond wedding band can enhance the sparkle of your engagement ring, creating a glamorous look. Consider the metal, style and overall design to ensure they blend beautifully together.

The width and thickness of a wedding band play a significant role in both its appearance and comfort on your finger. Consider that a thicker ring will feel more substantial and pronounced on your finger, while a thinner band might offer a more delicate and understated look ‒ pick what feels more comfortable for you.

Before you try any rings on, it’s helpful to determine your budget. Wedding bands come in various price ranges, so having a clear idea of what you want to spend will help you narrow down your choices and avoid going overboard. It’s worth considering that wedding bands can be made from various metals (which will also affect cost), including yellow, white or rose gold, platinum, palladium, titanium and more. Each metal has unique characteristics, so go for the one that suits your budget, preferences and any skin sensitivities.

Lastly, if you’re going for a custom design, order in advance to allow for potential delays.

Aimee Howlett | Diamonds Factory

Q&A Fashion&Beauty

Look the best version of you with our expert advice

EDITOR, OLIVIA GIBSON, POPS ALONG TO GA SALONS TO GIVE HER LOCKS SOME MUCH-NEEDED TLC

With talented professionals who supply top-notch services, GA Salons offers four luxurious salons around London: Notting Hill, Chelsea, Wimbledon and South Kensington. To help clients feel amazing inside and out while celebrating their individual beauty, the passionate team is on hand to bring visions to life one haircut at a time.

After neglecting my hair for a few jam-packed months, I needed a haircut to bring my usually luscious locks back to life as I struggled with breakage, split ends and dryness. The talented Salvatore Stasio at the Notting Hill branch came to my rescue with scissors in one hand and a hair dryer in another – my hero!

I loved the buzzing atmosphere and chic interior when I entered the intimate salon. Its wooden features and standout furnishings created the perfect setting for a luxurious experience. After being welcomed by many smiles and beautiful accents, I was handed a luxuriously silky branded GA robe before outlining what I hoped to achieve from my cut and blow dry.

After explaining to Salvatore that I didn’t want to take off too much length, we discussed ways to transform my fine hair that lacked volume. The result was to cut off a few inches and avoid my usual layers to keep my ends looking as thick as possible, which I’m very thankful for. After our chat, we headed to the comfortable wash basins, where I enjoyed a heavenly head massage and felt my problems melt away. An intense bonding treatment added instant shine and smoothing finish to my locks.

Next, it was time for the cut! After removing my dead ends, Salvatore cut a few faceframing layers and added movement by twisting my hair before using thinning scissors. There was instant volume after removing my frazzled ends, enhanced when blow-drying my hair. Using a small curling wand to add textured curls, he emphasised the effect with texture spray before setting everything in place with some hair spray. I was absolutely thrilled with the results and instantly felt a million dollars. The haircut has made me feel extra confident and has made styling my hair much easier; it effortlessly falls into place. I adore Salvatore; his vibrant personality and passion for hair are captivating. I felt weirdly at ease even though we had only just met, and it was like catching up with a friend. He’s so talented and showed me some of his fantastic looks over the past few months, which I was blown away by ‒ he’s a great credit to the team.

After such a fabulous experience, I highly recommend GA Salons and will return to try the natural colouring using blends of organic herbs, roots and flowers ‒ it’s one of the healthiest ways to colour hair without harsh chemicals!

GA Salons also offers various services across its sites, perfect for pre-wedding pampering with beauty treatments, make-up sessions, massages and nails. Let the experts work their magic with bridal hair and make-up on the big day to ensure you look amazing, and brides-to-be can book a hair trial ‒ essential to finding the perfect style!

Book here: www.gennarodellaquila.co.uk

Our expert event planners and designers offer a hasslefree service to plan that perfect wedding while you still have a 100% say over it.

A castle or a back garden of your house, we can make your dreams come true anywhere you ask us to.

SERVICES WE PROVIDE:

Full planning

Partial planning

Final weeks or on-the-day coordination

Proposal planning

Hen-do & Stag-do planning

SOMETHING TO SURPRISE AND DELIGHT FOR YOUR WEDDING DAY AND EVERY DAY

The ‘Out of the Blue’ collection has been curated with weddings in mind, for the bride, for the groom and all the bridal party. Something Blue by Ostro, a newly-launched London brand, is devoted to one exclusive gemstone Ostro blue topaz. Each piece of jewellery contains a breathtaking Ostro topaz, set in pristine white enamel and Sterling Silver. This is Something Blue jewellery to have and to hold every day.

HOT TOPIC

Local experts offer stellar advice on wedding dilemmas

JEWEL OF THE AISLE

What advice can you share regarding finding the perfect jewellery for my wedding day? Choose a piece of jewellery that will bring enchantment to your wedding and every day after. Something that you love so much that you would never want to take it off as the joy of your special day will always be with you.

What could be better than blue for your wedding day, especially if you love gemstones? Always try to find a stone that’s as near to flawless as possible with an intense clarity of colour. You may also want to know its source or provenance, so you may prefer to buy from a trusted jeweller. It’s also essential to ensure the finest setting quality, as the last thing you’ll want is for your gem to come loose!

Our jewellery at Something Blue by Ostro is dedicated to one semi-precious gemstone, Ostro Blue Topaz. While we’re a newly launched London-based brand, the family has been the world’s leading supplier of this breathtaking gem for three generations. Our knowledge is unsurpassed, and we can trace each gem from its source to its setting. Katy Ostro | Something Blue by Ostro www.somethingbluebyostro.com

THEMED TO PERFECTION

We’re having an autumnal-themed wedding, but we’re not sure where to start with the planning process. Do you have any ideas?

An autumnal-themed wedding will be a fantastic celebration filled with warm and cosy vibes. For a relaxed yet chic touch, consider a weather-appropriate marquee, barn, or outdoor space.

Embrace the season’s beauty with a colour scheme featuring oranges, browns, rust, and greens. Feel free to break some rules with pops of bright colours to express your style or culture seamlessly. Draw inspiration from seasonal holidays, like October’s spooky charm, and consider naming tables after your favourite horror movies for a playful touch.

For food, go for your favourite autumn/winter warmers like pies or roasts, or opt for barbecue and grilled foods to extend the summer vibes while creating a relaxed atmosphere.

Outfit-wise, brides can choose dresses suited for warmer weather and add layers if needed. Grooms and others in suits won’t have to worry about melting in the summer sun this time of year, and suit colours can complement the autumn environment beautifully.

Akilah Atiba-Davies | With Akilah & Co www.withakilahandco.com

V.I.P – VERY IMPORTANT PETS

We would love to include our dog in our wedding; what should we keep in mind?

Ensure your dog is happy, healthy and well-behaved throughout the celebration, whether a small wedding or an extravagant affair!

Consider your dog’s temperament and personality when deciding whether to include them in your wedding. Not all dogs are well-suited to loud and crowded events like weddings. If your dog is anxious or easily overwhelmed, leave them at home. Dog owners need to understand their dog’s body language and behavioural cues. Signs of stress, anxiety, or discomfort in dogs can include panting, pacing, whining, lip licking, and avoidance behaviours. If a dog is showing these signs, it’s important to remove them from the situation or provide them with a safe space to retreat to. Even the most well-behaved dog can become overwhelmed or anxious in these situations, leading to them accidentally knocking over or jumping on a child. In addition to keeping a close eye on them, educating any children attending on how to interact with dogs safely is essential. This includes teaching them not to approach a dog showing signs of stress or anxiety, to ask permission before petting them and to avoid approaching them while eating or drinking.

Ensure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water and is fed at their usual times. Bring along some of their favourite treats; it can also help keep them calm and happy. Ensure your dog has a designated potty area throughout the event and a responsible family member or friend to take your dog outside for necessary potty breaks.

Some venues may require that dogs are always kept on a leash or may not allow dogs in certain areas of the property; be aware of the rules and regulations so that you can plan accordingly. Ensure your dog is comfortable on a leash and is crate-trained.

Keep your dog away from potential hazards, such as food tables or decorations that may be tempting for your pup to explore. This will prevent your dog from ingesting harmful substances or foods and cause potential health problems.

Plenty of exercise and playtime before the wedding is essential to help

PRECIOUS CARGO

We’re going abroad for our honeymoon, and I want to keep my precious jewellery safe; what advice can you share?

It’s important to remember that several factors could damage your precious metals when heading on holiday, from sun cream dulling your jewellery’s sparkle to saltwater eroding metals. To ensure you don’t lose your jewellery while travelling, travel with your jewellery in your hand luggage and use some of these clever storage hacks to keep your jewellery safe and secure.

• Straw trick: Worrying about how to travel with necklaces without them getting tangled? This trick is perfect for necklaces and bracelets that get easily tangled up ‒ loop one end through a straw and fasten it. For bracelets, cut the straw down and loop the bracelet through.

• Jewellery wraps: These are an innovative storage solution to save space in your suitcase and protect your jewellery from getting tangled. Usually made from soft fabrics such as leather, they’re designed with multiple compartments, zips and press stud sections for earrings, allowing you to keep different types of accessories safe.

• Jewellery boxes: There’s no need to take your entire box full of every piece you own, so a smaller travel jewellery box is a great investment if you pack several pieces. These usually include different compartments designed to hold specific types of jewellery and can be locked for extra protection.

reduce their energy levels and prevent them from becoming restless or bored during the ceremony. Consider bringing familiar items such as their favourite toy or blanket, to help your dog feel more comfortable and at ease during the event.

If you plan to dress your dog up for the wedding, ensure the outfit is comfortable and properly fitted. Avoid accessories that may be choking hazards or restrict their breathing or movement. Booking a grooming session before the big day so your dog looks and feels its best will also prevent muddy paw mishaps.

Dr Emma Scales-Theobald | Pooch & Mutt www.poochandmutt.co.uk

• Pill cases: The cases are cheap and great for packing stud earrings or other small, delicate jewellery pieces such as gold rings. Every pair can have their compartment, keeping them perfectly organised.

• But tons: A great way to keep your stud earrings safe and in matching pairs is by using a large button. Put the studs through the small buttonholes, securing them with the back of the earring at the back of the button.

Robert Cuomo | Hatton Jewellers | www.hatton-jewellers.com

#TRENDING

We’re looking for an on-trend wedding theme but feel overwhelmed when scouring Instagram and Pinterest ‒ what do you suggest?

Trends will come and go, so it’s about being inspired by what’s ‘current’ while putting your spin on it to reflect your styles and personalities.

Trending at the moment is foliage (minimal flowers), it’s cost-effective and can look really magical when mixed with props such as candles.

Neon signs are super-popular too and are going to be sticking around, either personalised or with a generic quote ‒ these can be purchased or hired.

Couples can get creative with large inventive table plans that double up as favours. I’ve done a table plan made of wire, and all the names were printed onto luggage tags, which signified the couple’s love of

JETSETTERS

Our wedding is next October, and we’re looking for the perfect sunny honeymoon destination. What top three locations can you suggest for the time of year?

Our top pick is Bali. With art, spirituality, nature and delectable cuisine on offer, Bali has it all. Here, you’ll find luxury in the rarest of settings, even for those on a modest budget. Choose to split your stay between secluded jungle sanctuaries and trendy beachfront hotels, or island hop to the Gili Islands and Lombok.

Second on the list is Mauritius for its powder-white beaches, clear turquoise waters, dense forests and picturesque waterfalls. With unrivalled hospitality, prepare to be treated like royalty when honeymooning in this culturally and historically rich paradise. We favour the luxury resorts closest to Le Morne Brabant. Towering mountain views will envelop you on one side whilst beautiful sea views allure you on the other.

Last but most certainly not least is South Africa. Warm and sunny across the country, October is not only a perfect month for game viewing, with many upscale private safari reserves to choose from, but it’s also a great time to explore South Africa’s coastline. For some of the best whale-watching spots in the country, head to Hermanus. That is, after spending some time in the Harbor City of Cape Town and nearby winelands – a foodie’s dreamland.

Amisha Patel | Tailored Retreats www.tailoredretreats.com

travel and also became each guest’s favour to keep from the day. Another popular trend that’s not going anywhere fast, is handpainted acrylic signage. There are many signs that can be made perfectly to match the wedding colours.

It’s not just about trending themes, but also choices couples make such as using large props more than once. An archway can be used for the ceremony and then also became a backdrop for the couple during the wedding breakfast. I also created a large hoop for another wedding ceremony that was then used outside as a backdrop for photographs. I encourage brides and grooms to do this if they want to splash out on a large prop at the wedding so it gets maximum exposure throughout the day!

Roxanne Hartley | Hartfelt Events | www.hartfeltlondon.co.uk

©October Ward Photography

©October Ward Photography

©October Ward Photography

Email: contact@mialavida.com

Website: mialavida.com

Telephone: 020 8969 2483

Instagram: @mia_la_vida_bridal

Be inspired by the latest fashion trends and styles

DRESSED TO impress

Every bride wants to look her big-day best. It’s essential to not only find a gown that looks beautiful but is comfortable when it comes to dancing the night away. To help you find the one, we’ve asked top boutiques to showcase trending gowns that will turn heads.

Elbeth Gillis Pearl | Angelica Bridal Bloom | Andrea Hawkes Bridal and Occasion

Wisteria Bougainvillea Cupped Bustier Column Gown | Hermione de Paula

Red Rose Hand Painted Bustier Gown | Hermione de Paula

Martina Liana ML 1244 | Angelica Bridal

Dendrophile with Dendrophile Glove and Dendrophile Bag | Hermione de Paula

DISCOVER THE SUPPLIERS INVOLVED

Dove Grey Pearl Fern and Rose Organza Gown Hermione de Paula

Opacarophile with Opacarophile Overskirt and Opacarophile Sleeves Back | Hermione de Paula

Fern and Lace | Hermione de Paul

Andrea Hawkes Bridal and Occasion, http://andreahawkes.co.uk | Angelica Bridal, www.angelicabridal.co.uk Hermione de Paula, www.hermionedepaula.com

Celeste | Andrea Hawkes Bridal and Occasion

Malone | Andrea Hawkes Bridal and Occasion

Rembo Styling Cutie Pie | Angelica Bridal

the oneFINDING

Weknow how stressful finding your dream gown can be; there are so many gorgeous dresses with different styles, necklines, materials, lengths and embellishments to pick from – it can quickly become overwhelming! Shopping for your dream gown should be an exciting experience, so we’ve shared our top tips to help.

While searching for inspiration online is helpful to see an extensive array of styles, it’s easy to fall down the rabbit hole very quickly. Our suggestion is to research local boutiques to discuss concerns and requirements needed; the experts will then be able to advise on what will suit you. Check out websites and social media pages before reading reviews to find out what other brides thought of the team and the service offered throughout the whole experience from start to finish.

APPOINTMENTS

It can be tricky deciding who to bring along to your bridal appointment, but avoid bringing a crowd; everyone will have different opinions and it will quickly become overwhelming. We suggest inviting only a select few most important to you, such as your mum, grandmother, siblings or closest friends. Make sure to call ahead to check how many people the boutique allows.

Many brides go into their appointment with a dress in mind but come out with something completely different, so be open-minded and try on a few different styles to see what suits your body shape and

personal style best. Always try a wild card, as you never know, it might surprise you!

Be open and honest with your stylist about your budget, who will help you select a beautiful dress that fits your price range. The worst thing you could do is fall in love with a gown only to discover that it’s well over your budget – don’t torture yourself if you can’t afford it. You must also remember to save some money for the accessories and alterations.

THE LITTLE THINGS

It’s essential to wear nude underwear when trying gowns and avoid bright or bold patterns at all costs! If you’re planning to wear shapewear on the day, bring this along to get the full effect, as well as heels that are a similar height to what you’re after to see if alterations are needed.

Remember the time of year of your wedding when shopping for a gown. Think of breathable fabrics in summer like chiffon, crepe, and tulle while avoiding long sleeves as you don’t want to be too hot on the day. For the colder months, Mikado, brocade and gabardine are perfect materials. Be prepared with a bridal wrap or jacket for outdoor pictures to stay warm.

Some boutiques offer jewellery and accessories to finish the look; this is a great chance to try a few different options with the gown –especially regarding the veil. Here, you’ll see what works with the overall style and dress neckline.

SOMETHING blue

We’ve rounded up some of the latest products for the groom-to-be

Taylor & Wright Blue Suit, www.matalan.co.uk

www.watchshop.com

Sensational Check Waistcoat, £65, www.joebrowns.co.uk

The Believer, from £99, www.bloobloom.com

www.gettingpersonal.co.uk

Fun and Fresh Blazer, £110, www.joebrowns.co.uk

www.favourbrook.com

www.noeljewellery.com

Tailored Fit Blue Linen Shirt, £59.95, www.moss.co.uk

Men’s Tommy Hilfiger Weston Watch, £189,

Personalised Posh Totty Designs Vintage Map Circular Cufflinks, £24.99,

Sensational Smart Waistcoat, £55, www.joebrowns.co.uk

Blue Leather Belt, £7.99, www.tkmaxx.com

Revolution White Gold Lapis Lazuli Cufflinks,

Dress Trousers – Whitton Cord French Navy, £250,

Three Piece Suit Trousers, £99.99, www.tkmaxx.com

Navvy creates artisan bags using leather sourced from ethical manufacturers. Finished using vegetable-tanned leather known for its quality, longevity, and lower impact, Navvy’s range of backpacks, satchels, and mini bags are beautiful investment pieces that would make a thoughtful gift for the groom-to-be.

The team at Navvy tells us: “It goes without saying that as designers, we have a huge responsibility and opportunity to do everything we can to ensure our pieces cause no unnecessary harm to the environment. The first pillar of our two-pronged approach consists of creating timeless pieces and offering long-term repair and servicing, hoping to break the cycle of fast fashion.” Head over to www.navvylondon.com for more information.

Model, TV personality, and influencer Eyal Booker and his brother Ariel Booker have launched Wavy, the Everyday Curl Crème for men.

The duo is hoping to start conversations around male hair care and break the masculine norms while paving the way for a new era of men’s grooming. Designed to maintain and enhance curls for all hair types using high-quality ingredients, the Everyday Curl Créme lasts for up to 30 days when used daily.

To find out more, visit www.feelwavy.com

Adidas has released a new timepiece collection made using luxury materials and reimagined silhouettes. The Expression One (pictured) is a pared-back design with a strong personality, perfect for the groom-to-be who wants a statement piece to wear for years to come.

The SS23 collections align with the Adidas Originals Time for Me campaign, which celebrates self-expression and individuality, the core values of the brand.

Visit www.adidas.co.uk for more information.

Grooms’

NEWS

Grooms editor Melissa Cullen reveals the latest best buys and product launches

The newest edition to the Cologne Forte Collection, Aqua Media, is made from tangy, sparkling, and almost mouthwatering fresh notes that are full of life.

Francis Kurkdjian tells us: “Aqua Media smells like happiness, vitality, and energy, reassuring in its apparent simplicity. It puts me in a good mood. I have nothing else to add; everything is already there, written in the formula.”

This scent is now available to buy from Selfridges, Harrods, Harvey Nichols, and John Lewis.

Check out www.franciskurkdjian.com for more information.

Black Eyewear is the creation of optician and lifelong jazz devotee Robert Roope. The brand has lots of stunning models in its collection, each embracing different jazz artists. Roope’s array of designs includes frames dedicated to Duke Ellington, John Coltrane, and Ella Fitzgerald. With new designs being added, the collection is full of striking styles that are perfect for summer weddings.

Discover more at www.blackeyewear.com

Available from www.raymond-weil.co.uk

Luxury Swiss watchmaker Raymond Weil has introduced its latest freelancer model, the Freelancer Tri-Compax Chronograph. This new watch features a 43.5mm stainless steel case, the choice of a calf leather or stainless steel strap, and a power reserve of up to 56 hours.

Skin

DEEP

WarPaint For Men shares its make-up and skincare tips for grooms-to-be

Ourgrooms’ editor, Melissa Cullen, chatted with the founder of WarPaint For Men, Danny Gray, to discuss his skincare advice for grooms-to-be.

Base prep – As great make-up starts with healthy skin, preparation is key to ensuring any products you apply, like tinted moisturiser or concealer, sit well and last all day. Start by using a hydrating cleanser with warm water to wash your face. Follow this up with a hydrating moisturiser and a primer to create a great base for your make-up. It’s a good idea to leave the primer for a minute or so before applying any products.

SPF always – It’s important to wear SPF every single day to protect your skin from sun damage. Don’t worry; sun cream designed for your face isn’t the same greasy stuff you’d use for your body. It's often lighter and non-greasy, helping to create a good base for make-up.

Foundation vs tinted moisturiser –Sometimes, foundation can feel a bit too much in the warmer months, so instead, you can opt for a tinted moisturiser. These offer light coverage for your complexion while keeping your skin moisturised.

Cool eyes – Using an eye cream is a great way to combat dark undereyes and crow’s feet. A hack to really wake up and refresh tired eyes is to keep your eye cream in the fridge. Anything cooling will help depuff your eyes and

help you feel fresher on a hot day.

Even complexion – To make sure your make-up looks even and natural, use a brush or sponge for application. When applying foundation or tinted moisturiser, blend it all over your face, up to your hairline, and down your neck. Take extra care to blend in areas that crease, which might get warmer during the summer, such as around the nose and under the eyes.

Get bronzed – Do you want that just-backfrom-holiday look without reaching for the fake tan? Try using a bronzer to lightly contour the face and add extra warmth to your skin. Lightly sweep the bronzer across the top of your forehead and cheekbones using a powder brush, and gently buff out any harsh lines using the brush.

Facial hair focus – Are your beard or brows looking a little patchy, or lighter after time in the sun? Keep your facial hair looking fuller and thicker with a make-up pencil. Keep the pencil sharp, and you’ll be able to draw hair-like strokes to fill any patches or lighter areas. Try using a small comb to blend and shape the hair.

Don’t sweat it – If you’re worried about looking sweaty or oily, using a light, translucent powder on the face can help take away shine. Gently sweep the powder in circular motions over any areas of your face that can look shiny, usually the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin).

For more information about WarPaint For Men, visit www.warpaintformen.com

Travel editor Melissa Cullen reveals new openings and honeymoon essentials

HONEYMOONNews

MÁLAGA, SPAIN

Mett Hotels & Resort’s second lifestyle resort has recently opened on the pristine Marbella-Estepona shoreline. Inspired by the balanced bliss of Mediterranean living and Andalusian charm, the beachfront resort has 249 rooms and suites to choose from, each designed to be beautiful yet functional, with garden, sea, or pool-facing views. For those who wish to be at the heart of the conversation, Lifestyle Pool Rooms can be booked in advance, which have direct access to the Azure Beach Pool, providing immediate access to the hub of the resort.

The five-star resort has several restaurants to choose from, offering Italian and Greek cuisine. For those looking to taste some of Spain’s best tapas alongside a fine selection of wines, the elegant El Bar De Lola is the place to be.

The Moi spa is designed to soothe, pamper, and de-stress. Skilled therapists will help select the perfect treatment, from traditional massage and body treatments to holistic treatments to boost physical and mental health, with poolside cabanas available for tandem treatments.

For more information, visit www.mettsocialliving.com/marbella

PARGA, GREECE

Parga Beach Resort has unveiled 23 new luxury suites, fully equipped with private balconies and terraces, and some with plunge pools. Set on a secluded bay overlooking the glistening Ionian Sea and with direct access to Valtos Beach, the resort offers the perfect base to discover the quaint town of Parga in north-western Greece.

Home to three restaurants that feature beloved classic recipes with a twist, the resort invites guests to explore authentic Grecian flavours and indulge in homemade meals at its beachfront eateries, coupled with unobstructed views of Parga.

Perfectly positioned, couples can take part in kayaking adventures in the Ionian Sea, dive into the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, and discover the hidden treasures of this historic town.

For more information, visit www.pargabeachresort.gr

HAWAII, UNITED STATES

The Rosewood Resort, steeped in centuries of preserved tradition, has reopened its doors. In addition to embodying Hawaii’s cultural heritage through craftsmanship, several of the accommodations feature a private lanai to encourage couples to enjoy as much time as possible in the open air. The custom architectural details, furnishings, and fixtures make the most of natural materials and showcase a rich sampling of textures.

There are 150 traditional guest rooms to choose from, five restaurants and bars, and Rosewood’s integrative wellness concept designed to support the mind, body and soul.

To find out more, visit www.rosewoodhotels.com

KALAHARI, SOUTH AFRICA

Tswalu Kalahari Reserve in South Africa has opened its new Loapi Tented Camp. Offering a wilderness experience in the largest privately protected area in South Africa, couples won’t need to share any communal spaces; instead, there are six private safari homes.

With expansive views across arid savannah grasslands, Loapi Tented Camp’s private homes are tucked into the contours of the ancient Korannaberg Mountains and can accommodate two or four guests.

Designed using contemporary glass and steel pavilions, the living and dining areas form the heart of each home, together with an open-plan kitchen, fully-stocked pantry and bar.

Discover more at https://tswalu.com

Douglas Friedman

SVALBARD, NORWAY

The Science of the Arctic Expedition Cruise is perfect for couples who want to find out more about the most northern part of the world with a group of like-minded individuals. The perfect opportunity to deepen your connection to one of the world’s most rugged and remote archipelagos, travellers will have the opportunity to witness the breathtaking sight of polar bears, beluga whales, seals, walruses, reindeer, arctic foxes, and so much more.

Spending 10 days aboard the 104-metre, purpose-built, state-of-the-art Greg Mortimer expedition ship, couples will have the opportunity to listen to a range of exceptional talks, hike across the tundra, cruise past glacier fronts, marvel at fjords, and take to the water on zodiac boat safaris to get closer to some of the world’s most stunning landscapes.

Taking place on the 18th June 2024, transfers between airports, the hotel and ship, as well as internal flights between Oslo and Svalbard, are included.

Full details can be found at www.newscientist.com/tours

FRENCH ALPS, FRANCE

Expeditions

AE

Enjoy a hearty dose of fresh mountain air at the Armancette Hôtel in the French Alps. Part of the new Almae Collection, Armancette Hôtel is a familyowned hidden gem in the lesser-known, remote town of Saint Nicolas Veroce in Evasion Mont-Blanc. Open year-round, this 19-room hotel is located within the former bakery of the village and offers total privacy, peace and tranquillity in exceptional surroundings. A plethora of activities are available, including guided hikes and mountain biking excursions, where guests can take in breathtakingly verdant views and disconnect from everyday life. Home to an impressive spa with indoor and outdoor swimming pools, an outdoor Jacuzzi, three treatment rooms, a state-of-the-art fitness suite, a restaurant, and a wine bar, there is plenty to keep couples entertained.

Visit www.scottdunn.com for more information.

SICILY, ITALY

Tenuta Zisola lies in south-eastern Sicily, the birthplace of the Nero d’Avola grape, and is just a stone’s throw from Noto, a world heritage site famous for its Baroque architecture. Open all year round for wine enthusiasts, Tenuta Zisola is offering new, diversified wine tours with something to suit everyone.

Six wines are produced at Tenuta Zisola, four red and two white, with the aim of bringing out the finest qualities of the historic Nero d’Avola grape. Couples stopping at Zisola can stroll through the 50 hectares of property that extend around the estate, which offers marvellous views of Noto and the surrounding gardens cultivated with vineyards, as well as citrus, olive, and almond trees.

Check out https://uk.mazzei.it for more information.

FLORIDA, UNITED STATES

Recently reopened after a $65million transformation, The Boca Raton has been entirely redesigned by the renowned architecture and design firm, Rockwell Group. Paying homage to the pink hues of Boca Raton, the tower’s exterior has been refreshed to a light coastal pink, giving a fresh take on Barbie’s dreamhouse, featuring 224 suites and rooms, each with flexible configurations.

Set amongst 200 lake and oceanfront acres, couples are invited to experience the luxury rooms, culinary concepts, a private golden beach, a spa, an 18-hole golf course, a racquet club, a pool club, and much more.

Magical

MAURITIUS

Editor Claire Ridley fell in love with this year-round honeymoon hotspot

A LUXURY RETREAT

Nestled on the north coast of the island in Anse la Raie (a popular kite surfing spot) sits the five-star, eco-committed boutique hotel Paradise Cove. With Mauritius fast becoming a sustainable island, Paradise Cove’s effort to go green includes being part of the Positive Impact Movement (created by the Attitude hotel group) ensuring local sourcing and no single-use plastic.

ROOM WITH A VIEW

I was excited to visit this adults-only tropical paradise, an acclaimed Small Luxury Hotels of the World, having benefitted from a renovation in 2019. It offers a warm welcome with 75 rooms and suites including the Deluxe Premium Rooms, one of which was to become my home for three blissful nights. This honeymoon hideout has been authentically designed in the island’s signature style with wood, rattan and tropical palm-print wallpaper and furnishings.

The rooms have been positioned to admire the panoramic cove views, along with the cluster of other areas that make up this glamorous getaway. Centred around the main reception built under a charming thatch roof is the stylish STAY bar; the complimentary tea bar boasting locally grown flavours; the main swimming pool where I enjoyed an early morning dip each day and The Dining Room restaurant where the delicious buffet breakfast was brimming with exotic flavours.

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD

There’s so much choice between the four restaurants at this dreamy destination with a Dine-Around experience available in three of them for half-board and all-inclusive guests. For delicious sushi, the à la carte Japanese XO restaurant won’t disappoint while if it’s seafood you’re after, try the Cove Restaurant’s private kiosks on the sand for catch of the day.

I was in for a treat at the trendy Peninsular Restaurant and bar perched

overlooking the jetty and lagoon with far-flung views stretching across to the five north islands in one direction, and the new infinity pool (that’s heated during the winter months) in the other. A highlight was an invite to the launch of the new five-course vegan fine dining experience by Michelin-starred Chef Alexis Gauthier. I tucked into a fondant heart of palm made with pressed watermelon followed by a semi-confit cut of giraumon with a medley of grains and wild rice. The lychee wine is a must-try while you’re on the island, it became my favourite tipple of the trip!

RIDING THE OCEAN WAVES

I was lucky enough to hop on board the hotel’s 12-seat catamaran for a full-day cruise around Îlot Gabriel and Île Plate (also known as the Flat Island). After settling in for a suntan, and a delicious barbecue lunch, the boat reached Coin de Mire where it was time to grab my swimmers and jump into the warm Indian Ocean to snorkel (dive enthusiasts can scuba dive here).

Looking to make a memory on a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon? Then book a sunset cruise or the Stargazing experience with an astrologer out on the jetty which is just one of the many You&Me Moments the resort offers.

Back on land, activities include yoga, Tai Chi, a gym plus two floodlit tennis courts. One of my favourite pastimes was relaxing in the cute love nests dotted around the grounds, promising privacy for honeymooners.

ISLAND ESCAPE

The wellness journey starts the moment you enter the lush open-air spa where

the tempting treatments are known as Beauty Rituals of the World of the organic French brand Cinq Mondes. I indulged in a 50-minute full body massage with therapist Samantha who used a scented pure coconut oil made on the island. Dreaming of a couple’s massage in one of the love nests at the water’s edge? Consider it done!

WITH LOVE FROM MAURITIUS

Step back in time at the historic Château De Labourdonnais, a twostorey, colonial-style Creole mansion and heritage site which was once a sugar plantation. This local landmark boasts French-style furnishings plus an orchard in the grounds that contributes to the fruit production on the island. There’s a rum distillery, plus you’ll be spoilt by the menu choice at La Table du Château, (https://domainedelabourdonnais.com).

No trip to Mauritius is complete without a visit to the vibrant capital city of Port Louis with its street markets and bustling scenes - it was a fun way to fill my Insta feed at every turn!

Couples can get married at Paradise Cove – the Classic Wedding Package includes locally grown flowers, no single-use plastic and locally sourced ingredients for the dinner – a romantic Renewal of Vows is also an option. Stay at five-star Paradise Cove boutique hotel from £334 per room each night, based on two people sharing a Deluxe Premium Room on a half-board basis, www.paradisecovehotel.com/en www.instagram.com/paradisecovehotel www.facebook.com/ParadiseCoveHotel

TRAVEL SNAPSHOT

Love nest with a view

Climbing aboard the hotel’s catamaran

Admiring the sunset

Greetings from Île Plate

Chilling out in The Spa

A WARM WELCOME

I was invited to stay at the newly opened adults-only Sunrise Attitude, a four-star hotel committed to tourism with a positive impact with 153 rooms commanding prime position on the east coast. It’s opposite the powder-white sandy beach at Belle Mare boasting picture-perfect views of the clear lagoon which I couldn’t wait to swim in. Beach volley is a pastime here, along with sundowners on the shore - the local Phoenix Beer is a must-try!

Stand-out features include eight villas with plunge pools where you can wake up to room service. The 28 swimup rooms are another fab offering for honeymooners, linking each terrace to the main Papaya Pool and swim-up bar, plus there’s also Bar 31 boasting a stunning view of the beach and pool.

As with all eight Attitude properties, Sunrise Attitude has been designed in keeping with the local surroundings, marrying earthy tones with on-trend, hand-crafted furnishings created by local artisans using locally sourced materials including raffia. In their bid to eliminate single-use plastic, this eco resort provides you with a reusable water bottle and tea and coffee are collected from reusable glass jars at the Bulk Shop - don’t miss sampling the local passionfruit, mango and vanilla tea!

DINE IN STYLE

I had high expectations for an authentic tapas-style dinner at the brand’s signature Kot Nou restaurant (present at all Attitude hotels) and I wasn’t disappointed – you can take a cookery class here to learn the local recipes.

Similar to Paradise Cove, the DineAround option allows you to pick between three restaurants on a halfboard basis where you’ll be spoilt for choice! The Market restaurant specialises in local and international delicacies using the freshest seasonal and sustainable ingredients – I tucked into vegan pancakes for breakfast.

The Social House restaurant and bar is an informal setting playing live music during the evening where I shared tasty vegan platters, and my favourite spot for lunch had to be Taba-j, the brightly painted kiosk serving traditional takeout street food. I couldn’t get enough of the local roti washed down with alouda (a Mauritian milkshake). Experience one of your first meals as newlyweds with an invite to a local team member’s home for an Otentik dinner. My host was Concita Fortuno, who welcomed me for a wonderful evening of food, music and dance – she even taught me how to cook gateaux piment (chilli bites!)

EARLY TO RISE

I couldn’t wait to experience the Secret Sunrise guided meditation to music on the beach – even if it did mean getting up earlier than normal! Chilling out wearing headphones, it was an experience I’ll never forget. It’s free and takes place twice a week and a private 20-minute session can be arranged, with large groups invited to experience the interactive dance session.

LET THE MAGIC HAPPEN

I indulged in treatments at the new Spa POZ (meaning to relax and take a break). Dotted within this tranquil leafy space are single and double open-air creole treatment huts, a salt hammam (that helps to soothe skin problems) and a beauty salon. The vegan spa products packaged in reusable tins are handmade on the island using local plants with 5% of each purchase at Spa POZ (and from the Otentik Bazaars selling souvenirs) donated to

TRAVEL SNAPSHOT

the Green Attitude Foundation helping fund sustainable development projects.

WISH YOU WERE HERE

Why not split your stay between the three and four-star Attitude hotels that cater for most budgets in adults-only and family-friendly properties? Coin de Mire Attitude offers great value for money (https://hotels-attitude. com/en/ coin-de-mire-attitude) while Lagoon Attitude boasts 182 rooms including ten romantic whirlpool suites (https://hotels-attitude.com/ en/lagoon-attitude). It’s home to the Marine Discovery Centre, dedicated to the preservation of the marine ecosystem from where I set sail on a glass-bottom boat for a snorkelling trail to marvel at the underwater world. If you’re lucky, you might spot some whales from the boat ride too!

I was fortunate to visit Tropical Attitude with its 58 sea-facing rooms and 11 villas with private pools where a floating breakfast can be served (https://hotels-attitude.com/en/ tropical-attitude). A complimentary boat trip departs twice daily from here to the untouched Ile aux Cerfs where I sunbathed on the pure white sand.

If you’re searching for a fun-filled family-moon then head to Zilwa Attitude (https://hotels-attitude.com/ en/zilwa-attitude) which faces the northern islands. I couldn’t wait to take the raft over to Gran Zil for a beach barbecue lunch and chill out in an over-water hammock - I didn’t want to leave. Weddings take place here, with exclusive use of the island booked creating memories made in Mauritius.

Stay at four-star Sunrise Attitude hotel from £155 per room each night, based on two people sharing a Couple Room on a half-board basis, https://hotels-attitude.com/en/sunrise-attitude www.instagram.com/attitudehotels www.facebook.com/HotelsAttitude

PASSPORT AT THE READY

I flew direct to Mauritius with Air Mauritius from London Heathrow. Prices start from £709 return in economy class, www.airmauritius.com

Learning to cook

Mauritian style at dinner with Concita

Loving the snorkelling trail at Lagoon Attitude

Chilling out at Gran Zil, Zilwa Attitude

Headphones on at Secret Sunrise

Soaking up the rays at Sunrise Attitude

ROMANCE Rural

Olivia Gibson discovers the delights of Provence at Hôtel Crillon le Brave

Known for its diverse landscapes, picturesque views, iconic lavender fields, vineyards and Mediterranean coastline, Provence is the ultimate honeymoon destination that oozes romance at every turn. When the opportunity arose to visit Maisons Pariente’s Hotel Crillon le Brave, I packed my bags and headed to the airport alongside my partner for a magical stay at the sought-after property.

After a short flight and transfers to the five-star destination, we were welcomed by the oh-so-accommodating staff, who gave us a personal tour of the hotel. The charming spaces captured our hearts from the moment we arrived – it was like something out of a movie! The architecture made from blond Crillon stone is perched at the top of the village, boasting captivating views of Mont-Ventoux and the surrounding rolling countryside. Every corner of the private setting offered a stunning backdrop to escape the outside world and disconnect for a while.

BREAKFAST IS SERVED

While strolling through the labyrinth of 17th- and 18th-century buildings, hand-in-hand, we had to take a step back to bask in the gentle breeze, chirping birds and the occasional church bells. Together it created the ideal atmosphere to relax while enjoying a delicious Provençal buffet for breakfast on the panoramic terrace. What better way to start the morning than by eating delicious food while enjoying such breathtaking and wide-ranging views? We tucked into homemade pastries, fresh fruit and granola on our first morning before enjoying a cooked breakfast with freshly baked breads on our second day ‒ the Nyons olive bread is a must try!

PAMPERING PLANS

The Spa des Écuries is the perfect location to relax with various beauty,

body and facial treatments. Located in an ancient 18th-century stonevaulted stable with three treatment rooms, one of which is a double room, the team has paid close attention to the spa with cosy features and charming touches to create a calming atmosphere. After being greeted by the beauty therapist, I was whisked away to a room for an expertly executed massage. During my hour-long treatment, the masseuse went to town tackling my problem areas using traditional massage techniques to help me relax, reduce muscle tension throughout my body, and promote blood circulation. I felt all my worries melt away, as well as my knots. An aroma of essential oils filled the dark-lit room and I almost drifted off! The intimate setting combines gentle and effective approaches to enhancing overall wellbeing – I felt fully disconnected from the outside world, bliss!

REST AND RELAX

With 17 bedrooms and 17 suites, the hotel offers a stunning range of spaces for all celebrations. Our beautiful suite was complete with a spacious bedroom, lounge area and bathroom with all the amenities needed. The interior was something out of a storybook with a charming style, plush furnishing, neutral materials, an ornate fireplace and a green colour scheme. The red floor tiles are typical of Provence and can be seen throughout the space, through to the bathroom, which has a freestanding bathtub, double sinks and a spacious shower. The luxurious touches continued to the living room with a flat-screen TV, minibar, tasteful artwork, comfortable sofas and armchairs. With the summer approaching, we were thankful for the adjustable air conditioning too!

Sleeping in the large, king-sized bed was like laying on a fluffy cloud. The large windows overlooking the valley allowed plenty of natural light for a gentle and calming morning wake-up call, leaving us feeling wellrested and rejuvenated.

MAKING A SPLASH

I was desperate to catch some rays after the winter months, and the pool area at Hôtel Crillon le Brave was just what we needed! The heated, turquoise water overlooked the surrounding countryside and provided just enough space to get some morning lengths in. We spent most of our time in the tranquil setting, whether having a dip or enjoying the peaceful atmosphere with a good book. With multiple sun loungers scattered around, guests can easily find the perfect location to sit, whether it’s in the sun or under an umbrella.

For the fitness-fanatics, the on-site fitness room boasts all the equipment needed to break a sweat; I recommend enjoying some morning yoga to start the day off before breakfast.

Alternatively, I would recommend taking part in some friendly competition with a game of Pétanque, a French sport with the objective of getting boules closest to a target. I’m happy to announce that I won most of our games!

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

As a massive foodie, I was excited to try the local cuisine. Hôtel Crillon le Brave has two on-site restaurants offering local produce. Head chef Adrien Brunet has presented new menus with locally sourced delicacies, inviting guests on a gourmet journey through Provence. La Madeleine is a Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant that offers a spectacular experience on a panoramic terrace with must-see views. Expertly balancing textures and flavours, the team has created a gourmet menu with extraordinary dishes exquisitely presented.

The bistronomic restaurant, La Table du Ventoux, has a relaxed atmosphere, and Adrien has created a classic menu inspired by the best of southern France. We were privileged to dine at the restaurant twice. On the first night, I enjoyed the tempura scampi for starter, with shiso and juice extract, before tucking it into the Ardèche trout with watercress ravioli and lemongrass broth. I finished off the meal with a soft and fluffy Fraisier cake, which melted in my mouth! On our second evening, I opted for the fish bouillabaisse with a delicious sauce and spring vegetables, followed by the lamb Wellington with chlorophyll, nut-brow buttered polenta, and bay leaf. What better way to finish the meal than with a lemon cheesecake finger adorned with gold flakes? Thanks to the attentive staff

and passionate chefs, the service was impeccable on both evenings. My favourite beverage of the trip was the La Douceur de Crillon, a must-try cocktail featuring white peach, apricot from Roussillon, homemade lavender syrup and prosecco – yum! After our meals, we spent time in the bar area, the oldest house in the hotel. Located on the ground floor of the Maison Roche, this gorgeous space provides a cosy setting to relax with a drink in hand, especially with the extensive wine menu! An equally wonderful setting to relax during the day with a game of chess, whilst taking a break from the sun.

THE FINAL VERDICT

After such a memorable experience, I cannot recommend Hôtel Crillon le Brave enough! It’s the ultimate setting for romantic honeymoons, with a rural location, spectacular views, delicious dishes, charming buildings and a tranquil setting. The magical trip will always hold a special place in our hearts, and we have many memories to treasure for years – we will definitely be returning!

EXPLORE PROVENCE

Local attractions and nearby entertainment!

•Discover the beautiful village and stunning views on an electric scooter or bike.

•Visit the iconic lavender fields that flower mid-June to the end of July.

•Calling all wine lovers, discover the many local vineyards and meet the passionate teams behind them.

•Arrange a rural picnic with the team, who will supply local products for romantic lunches.

•With multiple golf courses nearby, why not swing a few golf clubs for some friendly competition?

BOOK IT!

Place de l’Eglise, 84410 Crillon-le-Brave, France www.crillonlebrave.com 0490 656 161 reservations@crillonlebrave.com

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BODY BLISS Total

Louise Prance visited Warwickshire’s Ardencote Spa, where she experienced total body bliss and a weekend of wellness…

Located in Warwickshire, Ardencote Spa is easily accessible for a spa day or weekend away, however, upon arriving down the leafy drive, you feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Set in 83 acres of landscaped gardens, Ardencote is a modern hotel and destination spa offering everything needed for a weekend of wellness after the big day. A pool, treatment rooms,18-hole golf course, leisure facilities, tennis courts and a restaurant and bar await for a blissful UK-based honeymoon.

Upon arrival my partner and I were shown to our sizeable, wellequipped room, one of 110 at the hotel, that overlooked the stunning outdoor pool and jacuzzi. After settling in, this was exactly where we headed first. Whilst the weather was on the cold side for the pool, the temperature of the jacuzzi was just right for a lengthy soak, glass of fizz in hand.

Not much could have dragged us away from this lap of luxury, but a full body massage was calling and much needed. Of all the massages I’ve had, this one was up there and highly recommended. If the jacuzzi float had left any aches and pains, the massage certainly rid me of any further niggles!

Furthering our relaxation, we induldged in the many spa rooms, including the Himalayan salt sauna, and after final dip in the atmospheric indoor pool the sun loungers were just perfect for whiling away the hours with a good book or post-wedding reminiscing.

Feeling a world away from the stresses of everyday life, we enjoyed a luxurious afternoon nap on the sumptuous bed, before getting ready for a delicious dinner at the 1 Rosette Brasserie, which complements the existing and ever-popular Conservatory Bar. I was treated to a delicious vegan burger, while my companion enjoyed a mouth-watering tagine, of course polished off with sizeable desserts.

Heading to the bar for a night cap, the aura of calm permeates every aspect of Ardencote and it wasn’t long before we took ourselves to bed,

feeling fully rested, content and peaceful.

After a leisurely lie-in the next morning, we headed down for breakfast before another dip in the pool and a stroll around the extensive grounds. If you’re so inclined, you can take part in racket sports tennis, squash and racquetball or table tennis, or take in a round of golf ‒ the winddown options are endless.

AN ILLUSTRIOUS HISTORY

Ardencote dates back to 1863, when it was built as the dowry house for Mary the daughter of Thomas Phillips, a wool manufacturer from Manchester. Having passed through many hands, and having undergone many extensions and updates since then, the beautiful estate was purchased by local entrepreneur Mr Huckerby in 1996. The Huckerby family still retains ownership, making Ardencote a truly family-run, independent hotel.

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WIN A ROMANTIC BREAK IN YORKSHIRE WORTH £1,000

Grinkle

Park Hotel is a stunning and luxurious baronial country house set in 35 acres of land between the North Yorkshire Moors and villages and beaches of the Yorkshire coast. With its magnificent grounds and a choice of reception rooms to cater for both intimate and larger celebrations, it is the ideal setting and venue for a romantic post-vow minimoon or an extra special North Yorkshire wedding.

Classic Lodges is a nationwide collection of exclusive hotels that all have their own exceptional and charming character, whether that’s a peaceful country getaway or a city centre stay. Each of the hotels provides a friendly, relaxing atmosphere while maintaining Classic Lodges’ signature style, comfort and luxury. Steeped in history, all of the hotels have equally stunning views to accompany the suites and rooms.

To book a stay with Classic Lodges, please visit www.classiclodges.co.uk

THE PRIZE

One lucky reader will win a luxury two-night stay for two at Grinkle Park. The winner of this fantastic prize will be greeted with a glass of Lanson Champagne upon arrival and enjoy a three-course dinner for two on the first night before settling down for a good night’s sleep in a double room. The prize also includes a delicious full Yorkshire breakfast or continental version both mornings. For your chance to win, head to our website www.yourlondon.wedding and answer this question:

Q: Grinkle Park Hotel is situated in how many acres of land?

Terms and conditions apply. Good luck!

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Situated in Greenwich World Heritage Site, The Fan Museum is the only museum dedicated entirely to the history, culture and craft of the fan. Our Grade II* listed buildings are the perfect site for our internationally significant collections, and our Orangery is the perfect venue for your special day.

To arrange a viewing, please get in touch. The

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